Savvy360 Kauaʻi - Spring/Summer 2024

KAUAʻI

CURATED TRAVEL + LIFESTYLE

Performance like no other

PXG offers a complete lineup of clubs from drivers to putters, as well as high-performance apparel and accessories. Visit your local PXG fitting location to shop our latest collections or schedule your one-on-one fitting and watch your performance skyrocket!

Local Vibe

Aloha blooms ... chicken go 'round ... sandy fish ... wonder bread ... red-headed beauties.

Mindful Traveler

A few ways to have an impact and give back to Kaua‘i during your stay.

Lay of the Island

Getting familiar with the Garden Island.

Salt Makers

Pa‘akai: Holistic Salt from Hanapēpē Salt Pond.

PA‘AKAI

MINDFUL TRAVELER

The island’s premier shopping and dining destination

CULINARY MARKET

KAUA‘I GROWN AND MADE

WEDNESDAYS | 3:30 - 6 PM

KANIKAPILA

RELAX TO LIVE MUSIC

FRIDAYS | 5:30 - 7:30 PM

BUBBA BURGERS

BLUE GINGER

COMPASS HAWAI‘I

COUTURED BOUTIQUE

CRUISE KAUA‘I

EATING HOUSE 1849 BY ROY YAMAGUCHI

HAPA RAMEN KAUAI

HA‘UPU OUTPOST

LAPPERT’S HAWAII

ICE CREAM & COFFEE

LATITUDES FINE ART GALLERY

LEONG’S MARKET & GRILL

LIVING FOODS

MAHINA

MALIE ORGANICS

MANA GRANDE’S GEMS

MARTIN & MACARTHUR

MERRIMAN’S KAUAI

SALT + SEA

SAVAGE SHRIMP

TABLE AT POIPU

TOMMY BAHAMA

UNCLE’S SHAVE ICE

URGENT CARE AT POIPU

AND MANY MORE!

Destination Waimea

Escape to the laid-back lifestyle of Waimea, known for its rich cultural history, welcoming aloha spirit and magnificent natural beauty.

Nature's Paradise

While the awe-inspiring natural landscapes may take top billing, a visit to Kōk‘ee provides a lesson in everything from culture and history to flora and fauna.

Home Again

The sacred ground at Nu‘alolo Kai once again provides a safe haven for seabirds.

Shaping Treasures

With inspiration from the past, Jeremy Lloyd honors Hawaiian surf culture through his rideable art.

Hot Spot

A dynamic duo of chefs lead Bar Acuda on its next chapter in Hanalei.

Culinary Q&A

Chef Mark Arriola of Living Foods.

What We Love Now

Trends on the culinary scene—coffee trucks, grandma's cookin', bowls of love and celebrating culture.

The Guides

Start planning your trip with curated guides.

TIDEPOOLS AT GRAND HYATT KAUAI

Feel the romance as tiki-torch lit bungalows float above a koi-filled lagoon.

Enjoy the island’s bounty as our Chef’s craft exotic tastes featuring the freshest of fish and succulent steaks. Savor the flavors and exceptional service.

Free valet parking for diners. For reservations call 808 240 6456, or book online at opentable.com.

The Shops at Grand Hyatt Kaua‘i

Devoted to quality clothing, art, jewelry and Hawaiiana.

The Shops at Grand Hyatt Kaua‘i offer something for everyone.

NA HOKU Na Hoku has been creating Hawaii’s finest jewelry since 1924. Their Hawaiian and Island Lifestyle jewelry features hand engraved heirloom, floral and seallife designs. nahoku.com

SHOE ENVY Shoe Envy features stylish, comfortable resort footwear for the whole family. Step into the latest fashions from brands like Olukai, Pikolinos, and Keen. You will also find unique handmade vintage clutches, leather handbags and accessories. shoeenvypoipu.com

MARTIN & MACARTHUR Handcrafted Koa furniture and personal accessories made by the finest craftsman in Hawaii for over 50 years. Choose from their collection of Koa wood watches, Eternity Rings, and Koa sunglasses made by their private stock of Big Island Koa. martinandmacarthur.com

WATER WEAR Water Wear will prepare you for beach life at its finest! Visit the shop for a complete selection of swimsuits, beach tops, sarongs, and beach slippers featuring popular surf brands.

TORI RICHARD Founded in 1956, Tori Richard is proud to continue their tradition of quality made-in-Hawaii craftsmanship and playful eclecticism for the resort lifestyle. From the finest textile printing techniques and unique fabrications, to the one-of a kind prints that adorn and delight, Tori Richard captures a piece of Hawaii like no other. toririchard.com

SUNGLASS HUT

The ultimate destination for sunglasses. Live for fashion or sport? Sunglass Hut has the best designer brands under the sun. sunglasshut.com

AFEINBERG GALLERY Come experience one of Hawaii’s premier fine art photographers, Aaron Feinberg. Aaron’s work ranges from the grand landscape to the surreal abstract, which will have you second guessing whether this is a photograph or painting. Specializing in small Limited Edition and even more exclusive Artist Proof prints, all artwork is customizable to your needs and shipped worldwide. afeinbergphotography.com

ACCENTS From fresh food and drinks to locally made and island inspired accessories and gifts, Accents brings you the best Hawaii has to offer.

POIPU BAY GOLF SHOP Within walking distance of the resort, you’ll find contemporary resort logo wear and accessories for both men and women. The Golf Shop features the newest designer collections for on and off the course. poipubaygolf.com

Aloha Blooms

Though the hibiscus family of flowers encompasses hundreds of different species all over the world, the brightly colored blooms have taken on an iconic status in Hawai‘i that is unmatched. There are seven species of hibiscus that are considered native to the Hawaiian Islands. The ma‘o hau hele, or yellow hibiscus (Hibiscus brackenridgei), was chosen as the state flower of Hawai‘i in 1988, although the hibiscus in general (referred to as aloalo in the Hawaiian language) was named the flower of the Territory

of Hawai‘i as early as 1923. Ancient residents had several uses for the versatile plant including a medicinal treatment for digestion. Today hibiscus blossoms are probably best known in Hawai‘i for use in floral lei necklaces. It is also common to see an aloalo worn in a woman’s hair for decoration. It’s said that if the flower is worn over the right ear, the wearer is in search of a partner, while displaying it over the left ear indicates that the wearer is taken.

Over 60 years of service with Aloha

Over 60 years of service with Aloha

WHY JACK HARTER HELICOPTERS? WHY JACK HARTER HELICOPTERS?

Originator of helicopter tours on Kauai with rich history for Originator of helicopter tours on Kauai with rich history for a unique experience a unique experience

FULL 60 minute tours = more viewing and better photos

Option for Doors Off or Doors On Option for Doors Off or Doors On

FULL 60 minute tours = more viewing and better photos

Only company on Kauai to fly 2 types of helicopters

Only company on Kauai to fly 2 types of helicopters

Customized private charters

Customized private charters

Highly-skilled pilots with over 70k flight hours combined

Highly-skilled pilots with over 70k flight hours combined Safety is #1 priority Safety is #1 priority

Chicken Go 'Round

If you’re ever doing a study on Pavlovian psychology, then a Hawaiian huli-huli sale might be a good place to start. When most locals smell the familiar scent of the famous Hawaiian barbecue, mouths start to water and people line up for a taste. The word “huli” means “turn” in Hawaiian, so “huli-huli” is literally “turnturn” and refers to the local style of rotisserie barbecue. Huli-huli is most often made with chicken but can refer to any BBQ meat that is

rotated over a heat source as it cooks. It has also come to denote the distinctive barbecue sauce used to marinate such delicacies, usually made from a mixture of ketchup, brown sugar, shoyu (soy sauce) and ginger, amongst other ingredients. Huli-huli can be found throughout Hawai‘i in grocery stores, as a daily special or sold as a fundraiser in parking lots and street corners. When you happen upon the succulent aroma, it’s almost impossible to resist.

Discover Your Place In Paradise

Your island home awaits at Kauanoe o Kōloa in the highly soughtafter resort area of Po‘ipū. Here, on the sunny southern shore of Kaua‘i, remarkable residences, adventurous days, restorative moments, a rich culture, and unrivaled natural beauty come together to create a truly exceptional place to call home.

Sandy Fish

With their strong grinding beaks and vibrant colors, parrotfish (Scarinae) are certainly one of the most aptly named fish in the sea. One glance at this reef dweller instantly invokes visions of its avian namesake. The seven species of parrotfish that populate the Hawaiian waters are known collectively to locals as uhu. A favorite of spear fisherman for their succulent and flakey white meat, the strikingly vivid bluegreen males stand out like a swimming sapphire. Most parrotfish are born female, sporting a dull red color, but will change their sex and colors as

needed to sustain a local population. They feed on algae helping the coral reef stay in healthy balance, and grind on old coral and rock, which turns into sand. According to the Maui Ocean Center, an 18-inch parrotfish can produce over 700 pounds of sand per year. They were well known to ancient Hawaiians who told stories of how uhu’s behavior indicated what a fisherman’s wife was doing back home. For instance, if two uhu were rubbing noses, then it meant that the wife was flirting with another in his absence.

TASTE KAUA‘I & EXPERIENCE ALOHA

Come join us at Kaua‘i’s famous plantation estate, where we live and breathe aloha every day.

Wonder Bread

‘Ulu has always been a sacred fruit in Hawaiian history, a staple with nutritional, medicinal and historical relevance. The ‘ulu, or breadfruit, was considered the staff of life and brought over as a canoe plant. There is no recorded data about exactly when ‘ulu made its way to the Polynesian Islands, but oral history has a firm belief that it came by way of Tahiti or Samoa. The first written account about ‘ulu in Polynesia was made in 1595 by Spanish explorer Mendaña following his visit to the Marquesas Islands.

The ancient Hawaiians would bake ‘ulu in an imu (earth oven), boil it, dry it or ferment it into poi for nutritional use. The bark was used as a bandage to heal skin wounds, the root oil as a remedy for impure blood and the sap to trap birds so they could use their feathers for ceremonial attire. In modern local fare, ‘ulu is found boiled in curries, fried in butter, baked into bread, used in dips and even desserts.

A mature ‘ulu fruit can weigh up to 10 pounds and is found growing between 1,000-2,000 feet above sea level in Hawai‘i. It is generally an erect tree, but there is also a mysterious Hawaiian variety that is low-ground growing and found on the island of Ni‘ihau.

Red-headed Beauties

Native to South America, the red-crested cardinal (Paroaria coronata), also known as the Brazilian cardinal, was first introduced to Hawai‘i in the 1920s. These colorful birds, which are not closely related to the true cardinals family despite its common name, can easily be spotted throughout the Hawaiian Islands. Today, these red-feathered beauties are also found in South America and Puerto Rico. Generally, female and male cardinals differ in appearance with males having the brighter plumage, but Hawai‘i’s red-crested cardinal

variety have a more uniformed look. They are characterized by a solid gray back, red head and bib, white underside, a standard cardinal crest, and a light-colored, cone-shaped beak. This introduced resident species travel in groups, and are found from mountain forests to beaches feeding on seeds and small insects. Their bird song is represented with a rhythm of up and down whistles. Hawai‘i is a perfect home for the red-crested cardinals because their natural habitat is best when subtropical or tropical.

Smart Screen

Each year, an estimated 4,000 – 6,000 tons of sunscreen ends up in the ocean contributing to the destruction and death of live coral that serves as a habitat, and even food product, for sea creatures. Even those wearing sunscreen but not getting into the ocean need to be mindful of the products they wear because when rinsed off in the shower, chemicals in sunscreen end up in the groundwater, eventually making their way to the ocean. To battle the destruction of our coral reefs from chemicals, Hawai‘i became the first state in the United States to ban the sale of sunscreens containing coral-harming chemicals such as oxybenzone and octonoxate. These chemicals affect the coral by causing the coral to ossify or harden into bone. This process causes deformity, decreased mobility and even death of the coral. To play a part in ensuring our coral reefs remain healthy while still protecting your skin from the sun’s rays, be sure to look for “reef-safe” products and opt for sunscreens that use zinc oxide or titanium dioxide. To learn more on reef-safe sunscreen, visit the National Park Service’s website: nps.gov/articles/protect-yourself-andprotect-the-reef.htm.

Discover the Charm of Hanalei

HANALEI CENTER

Shop + Dine + Unwind

DINING

AMA | Bar Acuda | Federico’s | Hanalei Bread Co. | Hanalei Gourmet

SHOPPING

Rip Curl Surf | Hanalei Surf Company | Hanalei Market | Havaiki Oceanic & Tribal Art

Hula Beach | Jewel of Paradise | Sand People | Tropical Tantrum | Yellowfish

SERVICES & WELLNESS

Black Coral Yoga | Hanalei Dental | Hanalei Initiative | Hanalei Bay Massage

Rider Physical Therapy | Spa Soul Skin Hanalei | Hanalei Gourmet

www.HanaleiCenter.com | Located in the Heart of Hanalei

Support Culture

Head to the Kaua‘i Museum to learn about the island’s past and view its meticulously curated exhibits. Whether learning about the royal family of Kaua‘i, viewing ancient Hawaiian artifacts, or participating in their community events, the Kaua‘i Museum provides a space for locals and visitors to learn about the islands we love. After walking through the galleries, you can also visit their gift shop to purchase books discussing Hawaiian history and culture, handmade jewelry, and wooden creations for the home. Be sure to check their calendar for a variety of weekly events from painting, to weaving, to hula classes.

Kaua‘i Museum; 4428 Rice Street, Lihu‘e; (808) 245-6931; www.kauaimuseum.org; Open Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. and Saturday from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.

ALOHA KAUA‘I

Its beauty is profound.

Kaua‘i is the oldest of the eight main Hawaiian Islands, which means it has had more than five million years to develop its uniquely gorgeous geologic features. The Garden Isle’s one-of-a-kind, rich topography fluctuates from vast, emerald mountains and deep red dirt-laced valleys to windswept, craggy coastlines and flora-filled forests. >>>

Lay of the Island

Varied vistas aren’t the only reason this island stands apart; there are anthropological reasons as well. Polynesian settlers of the Garden Isle were resilient warriors when it came to protecting their sovereignty and ‘āina (land), so Kaua‘i was never taken by force, despite the many attempts of powerful rulers from other Hawaiian Islands. Even though Kaumuali‘i, the last reigning king of Kaua‘i, finally reached an amicable resolution with Kamehameha in 1810, the noble warrior spirit remains a significant part of the unconquered island’s legacy. Inaccessible regions still abound and nature is more commonplace than buildings, which, by the way, aren’t allowed to be taller than a coconut tree. Laid-back sleepy towns like Waimea and Hā‘ena abound and kama‘āina (residents) are often more inspired by the day’s surf than the daily grind.

The island is roughly the same size as O‘ahu, but its population is only some 70,000. Kaua‘i has one highway that circles its periphery from Kē‘ē Beach to Polihale State Park. The verdant valleys and dramatic emerald cliffs of the Nāpali Coast, however, remain disconnected from the

rest of the island and exclusively viewed by foot, boat or air. A rural atmosphere makes Kaua‘i the Shangri-La of outdoor adventures. Hike through misty rainforests of Kōke‘e State Park, into the dusty red gorge of Waimea Canyon or along the ragged coastline of Māhā’ulepū. Rent a kayak or stand up paddleboard and coast along the Hanalei or Wailua rivers that are fed by Mount Wai‘ale‘ale, one of the wettest spots on earth that averages more than 400 inches of rain each year. Swim at celebrated beaches, such as Hanalei Bay, set against the mighty Namolokama Mountain, or the perpetually sunny South Shore’s familyfriendly, Po‘ipū Beach.

Kaua‘i’s quiet characteristics are also ideal for relaxation. Full service resorts around the island provide so many amenities and comforts that guests don’t have to leave in order to enjoy the island’s rehabilitating attributes. While weather is ideal year-round, keep in mind that rain is more consistent during the winter season when tides also pick up on the North Shore, whereas the summer is hotter and surf kicks into higher gear on the South Shore.

The Garden Isle’s fascinating history and unforgettable geographic splendor are reasons why it remains exclusive from other islands in the Hawaiian Archipelago—and throughout the world.

SALT MAKERS

Pa‘akai: Holistic Salt from Hanapēpē Salt Pond story

MARY TROY JOHNSTON

Exotic salt has become a fascinating trend: red, pink and black salt from Hawai‘i, the Himalayas, the Guérande peninsula in France and the Atacama Desert in Chile. Yet, none is comparable to the salt made in Hanapēpē on the west shore of Kaua‘i. Saltpond salt is made by salt makers informed by a practice that has endured for over a thousand years on Kaua’i, following in the well-trodden steps of their ancestors. The unique site is environmentally situated far enough from the ocean for the beds not to be flooded during the salt-making season (May through September) on a plain of mineral-rich red soil, close enough to the ocean to draw salt water from naturally flowing underground wells that connect to the pristine seawater. Pa‘akai, the Hawaiian word for salt, is also the word for a dedication to salt making for its spiritual and cultural purposes, a holistic dedication that approximately twentytwo Salt Pond families have accepted as their kuleana (responsibility, as in a higher calling) to caretake for future generations. Unsurprisingly, the meaning of pa‘akai also references a miracle we tend to take for granted: kai is the ocean that becomes pa‘a, which is hard. The Hawaiian language is skillful in the revelation in one word of a complicated process: seawater evaporated into salt with interconnected elements of water, sun and land.

Hawaiian lā‘au lapa‘au practitioner and healer Sean Chun elaborated on the spiritual and healing attributes of pa‘akai. When pa‘akai is “cleansed of lepo (dirt) and added to fresh water, it becomes Waikapu a Kāne, the sacred water of K ā ne,” according to Sean. K ā ne was the leading Hawaiian deity, the god of creation and the giver of life. Sean recalls the powerful “ritualistic blessing called pīkai (sprinkling of salt water) to cleanse a person of evil influences.” From the beginning, Hawaiians have looked to pa‘akai to remove evil presences from their persons, to purify their homes or as a cleansing ritual after a funeral. The practice carries over when a person puts a bit of salt on the tongue to guard against evil.

When pa‘akai is mixed with water, it becomes wai pa‘akai (salt water). ‘Alaea (Hawaiian sea salt mixed with volcanic clay called ‘alaea, a brickred colored clay) may also be added. This form enhances the healing properties of pa‘akai. Sean outlines several healing effects. The solution is “consumed to clean out a person’s bowels as part of the protocol for treating people internally with la‘au lapa‘au (traditional Hawaiian medicine).” It is also used as a gargle “to clean cold sores or treat a sore throat.” When pa‘akai is combined with herbs and pounded into a poultice, “the pa‘akai is anti-bacterial and draws out the vital phytochemicals in plants to treat external injuries, aches or wounds.”

Ancient Hawaiians did not need a scientific analysis of the value of island salt. We know Hawaiian salt’s nutritional benefits, especially when mixed with algae. It is chockful of natural nutrients and is especially noted for being mineral-rich, such as magnesium and potassium, which are required for bone health and beneficial for heart functioning. As our bodies do not make these minerals, eating food containing them is important. This salt also contains relatively less sodium chloride than most salts, sodium being the element that can tamper with blood pressure.

It is a way of connecting with ancestors, keeping alive the ways things were done and teaching this to keiki.

Another positive feature is the iron found in the ‘alaea, which is more digestible than other sources. In Hawai‘i, the material value of pa‘akai manifested in the sacred attachment to the salt. Throughout Hawaiian history, salt has been used in blessings, cleansing homes and temples, and many rituals, for instance, sending off canoes to bring good luck on a voyage and couples to be wedded dipping their hands in saltwater to prepare for their journey. Hawaiian salt is believed to enhance mana (spiritual power). When salt makers from Hanapēpē sent salt to their kindred who survived the Maui fires, the gesture sent a powerful message of cleansing, healing, sacred blessing and mana for recovery. The labor required to prepare the beds, dip briny salt water out of the wai kū (holding tanks for the seawater that flows through underground wells), fill the ponds and harvest the salt is hard work. It is a family affair, first, because of the devotion passed down through generations and the desire to preserve a tradition. It is a way of connecting with ancestors, keeping alive the ways things were done, and teaching this to keiki (children) who learn by watching and doing. The work at Salt Pond is intensive and requires many hands of multiple generations who come together to farm pa‘akai. Ku‘uleialoha Gaisoa, whose father was in the salt patch for eighty or more years and she for over forty-five, shares the tradition. She describes how the keiki love to make clay balls, but the clay is getting harder to find. The adults reshape the balls with a lava rock to line the beds. She makes no bones about the demands of the work. It is hard work and performed as a labor of love. Times have certainly changed, and new situations have yielded new practices. Nonetheless, so much remains the same. She asks, “Do we get down on our hands and knees and rub our beds with a rough rock and a smooth rock? Is that the same technique? YES IT IS.” She continues, “Do you hunt for

black clay to make these beds? I don’t know if, back in the day, they had to hunt as much as we do.” Admittedly, today’s tools include “a shovel and a wheelbarrow,” but the work is still largely left up to the people. It is not mechanized as it is elsewhere in the world. According to Ku‘uleialoha, “Some of us rub beds all day.”

The work is not dreaded, though. It is very familiar, almost innate, and fulfilling. Ku‘uleialoha summarizes how the work is necessary to the mission. She relates, “Salt workers were raised to work. To walk into the patch, give a little nod to the people around and work. There is a job to be done: to create Hawaiian salt to share, give and support the people.” The tradition is to gift the salt or to barter, but it is not sold. she concludes that the mission is something “we all understand”. Nothing distracts her from her goal. She describes the ultimately rewarding experience, “Salt Pond is my favorite place to be, and I make sure I do everything I can to help to protect and preserve.”

If preserving Salt Pond only required the devotion and enduring efforts of Ku‘uleialoha and other salt makers, the future would be guaranteed. Sadly, the environment that nests the salt beds has undergone dramatic change, creating a real sense of urgency about whether the ponds will continue to produce into the future and whether this last tradition of farming salt in keeping with ancient practice will survive.

The tidal and wave patterns have changed with climate change. The beds must be relatively dry from May until September to evaporate the saltwater in the ponds. The handmade beds are deep enough to hold water but shallow enough to permit evaporation from the sun. An overflow of the beds or a breach caused by groundwater can disrupt the natural process. Climate change has precipitated floods from higher tides, not to mention more extreme wave action, also causing coastal erosion, making conditions more

unpredictable. The continuation of this ancient practice depends on environmental conditions replicating those of the past. A requisite is that the beds must be able to have a boundary from encroaching water during the salt-making season. Furthermore, natural resources, such as brine shrimp that flavor the salt and pure water, must be in good supply but are subject to change. Pollutants have become a significant concern, whether from the reckless discard of items, leaching cesspools or feces from feral animals. All of these are growing problems on Kaua‘i. There are too many environmental threats to list, but the situation is dire for natural resources. Last season’s salt production was dismal; in some ponds, salt makers had nothing to show for their efforts, whereas, in generations past, vast mounds of crystallized salt would demonstrate their extraordinary labor. Sadly, there is not a lot of salt to be shared.

Pa‘akai is a holistic substance. It has a material value that has long enhanced the cuisine of Hawai‘i: poke and lomi lomi (salted salmon mixture) and pipikaula (beef rope like a jerky product). In old Hawai‘i, salt was essential in preserving abundant fish to prevent spoilage. The salmon from the Pacific Northwest, which became a favorite of the Hawaiian laborers who entered the fur trade, could only be transported back to Hawai‘i packed in salt. The cultural value of pa‘akai is all the greater. The cultivation of salt mirrors ancient Hawaiians› relationship to the sea and the land, realizing the knowledge and care they must have for resources that sustained them. It is the medium through which ancestors transmit their knowledge, healers continue the practice of traditional medicine and the people of Kaua‘i experience the sacred. The loss of pa‘akai would be holistic, taking a toll far beyond Salt Pond. It’s no wonder Ku‘uleialoha when asked the title she wanted to use for this article, replied, “Salt maker.” No other title could so distinguish her life’s work.

DESTINATION

WAIMEA

Escape to the laid-back lifestyle of Waimea, known for its rich cultural history, welcoming aloha spirit and magnificent natural beauty.

story KRYSTAL KAKIMOTO images KEITH KETCHUM

Translating to “red water,” the town of Waimea is located approximately 20 miles west of Līhu‘e on Kaua‘i’s southwestern shore. Today, the sleepy town is primarily residential, with small, locally-owned shops sprinkled throughout. However, in generations past, the area played a vital role in the history of Kaua‘i and the Hawaiian Islands.

When the first voyagers reached the island of Kaua‘i between 200 A.D. and 600 A.D., they settled in the Waimea area and established a thriving farming and fishing community. When Captain James Cook, the first European explorer to establish western contact with the Hawaiian Islands, landed in Waimea in 1778, he and his crew toured this community, documenting their flora, fauna, language and more. Cook’s arrival in Waimea was pivotal in Hawaiian history, opening the island chain to European contact and introducing industry and disease.

Over time, Waimea became an important city along the whaling, sandalwood and maritime fur trade routes. Later, when pineapple and sugar became the major industries in Hawai‘i, Waimea evolved into a sugarcane community, becoming home to immigrant workers who lived side-by-side with the Native Hawaiians. Today, Waimea’s charm shines through as an off-the-beaten-path destination for visitors to explore.

Start your day coasting along Kaumuali‘i Highway, which will take you from Līhu‘e to the Waimea River, the threshold of Waimea town. After crossing the Waimea Bridge, you will be in a quiet, residential neighborhood. Head first to locally owned and operated Aloha’n Paradise for one of the best cups of coffee on the west side. Along with its freshly made drip coffee, the café is also known for its espressobased drinks. Since you are in the shadows of the Waimea Canyon, a fun start to your day trip would be ordering the Canyon Latte, served hot or cold and topped with mac nut whipped cream and a touch of lavender. Aloha’n Paradise also offers freshly squeezed lemonade, iced tea, smoothies, Italian sodas and baked goods like fresh croissants, assorted muffins and biscotti.

You can enjoy your breakfast in the tranquil dining area of Aloha’n Paradise or head across the street to Hofgaard Park, a narrow park named in honor of Judge Christopher Blum Hofgaard and the location of the Cook Landing Site monument. At this small

park, you will find benches, picnic tables and a replica of a Captain James Cook statue, which also stands in his hometown of Whitby, England. Cook’s third voyage brought him to the Pacific, where he charted several islands. On January 19, 1778, he spotted the shores of Kaua‘i, and the following day, he made landfall near the mouth of the Waimea River. Today, the Cook monument appears too far inland from the shoreline, but this distance is because, over time, the shoreline was pushed farther out due to erosion.

After breakfast, spend a few hours walking the quaint streets of Waimea and check out what the local retailers offer. One popular spot located just a stone’s throw from Hofgaard Park is Aunty Liliko‘i, a shop that has been producing passion fruit products since 1990. Melissa McFerrin Warrack and James Warrack, the husband and wife team behind Aunty Liliko‘i, specialize in manufacturing and selling their award-winning line of jellies, mustards, butters, syrups and dressings. To commemorate your trip to Kaua‘i, you can gift family and friends a jar of their

award-winning Passion Fruit Wasabi Mustard or a gift box of their best-selling products.

The main street of Waimea town is lined with numerous locally-owned shops, many of which have been in business for generations. Located about three blocks from Aunty Liliko‘i, just beyond the Waimea Theater, you will find The Shrimp Station, which celebrated its 10th anniversary in 2023. Their neon green building has been a beacon for shrimp lovers, offering some of the most flavorful shrimp on the island. The signature “Got Garlic” features shrimp sauteed in butter, white wine and a healthy serving of garlic. Shrimp lovers also indulge in their Coconut Shrimp, Shrimp Tacos and Shrimp Burgers served with papaya-ginger tartar sauce.

If tacos are more your vibe, make sure you check out Island Taco for some of the best fish tacos on the island. They hand-make their tortillas from scratch and feature tacos such as the Seared Wasabi ‘Ahi with just the right kick from the wasabi aoli, a succulent Kalua Pork option and even a tofu taco for vegetarians.

When you’re ready for a sweet treat, a must-visit spot in Waimea is the iconic Jo-Jo’s Shave Ice, located across the street from Waimea High School. Even though there are three locations, people continue to flock to their original shop in Waimea town to enjoy their cloud-soft shave ice topped with homemade syrups and cream sauces. Open since 1992, Jo-Jo’s signature flavor combinations include the Rainbow, which starts with a scoop of creamy mac nut ice cream sitting below shaved ice topped with strawberry, banana and vanilla syrups, and the Jo-Jo Special, which starts with vanilla ice cream sitting below shaved ice topped with chocolate and butterscotch syrups, vanilla cream sauce and chocolate drizzle.

As the day starts to heat up, head to Waimea Canyon Drive, which leads to Waimea Canyon and the Kōke‘e State Park. Known as the “Grand Canyon of the Pacific,” the Waimea Canyon is a

geological wonder spanning 14 miles long and 3,600 feet deep. The 36-mile round-trip drive takes you along a road filled with panoramic canyon views and through dense forests. Just past mile marker 15 is the Kōke‘e Lodge and Natural History Museum. This modest museum offers interpretive exhibits, maps, guides and a souvenir shop.

Wind back down Waimea Canyon Drive and cross Kaumuali‘i Highway at Pokole Road to Waimea Beach, one of the only black sand beaches on the island. This tranquil stretch of beach is a popular picnic spot and place to watch the sunset. As the sun dips into the Pacific Ocean, scan the horizon for the outline of Ni‘ihau, the Forbidden Island. Located 17.5 miles southwest of Kaua‘i, the island was purchased by Elizabeth Sinclair in 1864 from the Kingdom of Hawai‘i for $10,000. Today, the island is off-limits to anyone but her descendants, and glimpses of Ni‘ihau can only be

seen from specific lookout points on Kaua‘i.

After the sun has set, head to Wranglers

Steakhouse and Saddle Room Bar to refuel before your trip back to town while taking in the western ambiance of the restaurant, a nod to Waimea town’s paniolo (cowboy) roots. The menu features grassfed beef raised on the island supplied by Sharleen Andrade Balmores of Rancher’s Daughter’s Reserve, a fifth-generation Kaua‘i-born rancher. Along with a selection of Kiawe-grilled steaks, an excellent menu item to share is their Pupu Platter, which features sauteed mushrooms, fried calamari, crab cakes and an 8 oz. New York Steak. Salads, burgers and house specials like Shrimp Scampi and BBQ ribs round out their menu, offering something for everyone.

As the night winds down, the tranquil drive from Waimea to Līhu‘e will take you from this seemingly sleepy town affectionately known as “Hawai‘i’s original visitor destination.”

Aloha’n Paradise; 9905 Waimea Road, Waimea;(808) 320-8244; Open Monday to Friday from 7 a.m. to 12 p.m..

Aunty Lilikoi; 9875 Waimea Road, Waimea; (808) 338-1296; auntylilikoi.com; Open daily from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Jo-Jo’s Shave Ice; 9734 Kaumuali‘i Highway, Waimea; (808) 378-4712;.jojosshaveice.com; Open daily from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Kōke‘e Natural History Museum; 3600 Kōke‘e Road, Kekaha; (808) 335-9975; kokee.org; Open Monday – Friday from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., Saturday and Sunday from 10:30 a.m. to 4 p.m.

The Shrimp Station; 9652 Kaumuali‘i Highway, Waimea; (808) 338-1242; theshrimpstation.net; Open Friday – Tuesday from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.; Closed Wednesday and Thursday.

Wranglers Steakhouse and Saddleroom; 9852 Kaumuali‘i Highway, Waimea; (808) 338-1218; wranglerssaddleroom.com; Open Tuesday to Saturday from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m.; Saddle Room open Friday and Saturday from 5 .pm. to 10 p.m.

NATURE'S PARADISE

While the awe-inspiring natural landscapes may take top billing, a visit to Kōk‘ee provides a lesson in everything from culture and history to flora and fauna.

story MARY TROY JOHNSTON images KEITH KETCHUM

If you want a quick demonstration of microclimates, drive to the west side of Kaua‘i and take Highway 550 up to Kōke‘e. By now, you have realized that Kaua‘i has seven diverse microclimates within relatively short driving times if you can avoid high traffic times. Choose your pleasure from tropical rainforests to the more arid tropical shorelines and plush green plains on the upper east side of the island for a few variations. And onto Kōke‘e, where you pass through a dry, desert landscape on the west side, or the island›s leeward side, and up to a mountain forest categorized as montane mesic forest. Moderate temperatures are certainly a big draw. Winter and summer in Kōke‘e are not in the toocold range in the winter, reaching the low sixties and heating up to the seventies in June, July and August. It is roughly ten to fifteen degrees cooler in the higher elevations. If you find yourself sweating elsewhere on the island in the summer, for instance, in Princeville, where temperatures may range into the mid-eighties, it is time to take a drive to the forested mountains of Kōke‘e situated at an altitude of 3,200 to 4,200 feet, thus meeting the criterion for a montane forest at a low enough altitude so that trees can grow. As a mesic forest, the environment falls between wet and dry, often described as moderately humid but rainy.

Director of the Kōke‘e Natural History Museum, Christine Faye, recommends that the island’s first-time visitors spend several nights elsewhere on the island before heading up to Kōke‘e. The remote area does not provide the experience tourists often expect and lacks the perks accompanying tourist attractions. Bike paths, luxury accommodations, paved trails and many food and drink options are not the stuff of Kōke‘e. Nature provides the allure. Immersion in the mesic forest may be accompanied by unexpected moments and original sensing more than a planned and anticipated experience. Kōke‘e, as implied by the meaning of the Hawaiian word “to wind, to bend,” suggests an unpredictable exploration that meandering supported by intuition reveals.

The road up to Kōke‘e was built in the 1920s to showcase all the best views of Waimea Canyon. No wonder locals like to take a day trip there with the idea of having a picnic in the meadow in front of the Kōke‘e Museum. If you plan to hike on one of the trails and rely on phone apps, downloading the information is a good idea before making the ascent as

cell service can be spotty at the higher elevation. The museum can also provide trail maps and directions. An important tip for day trippers is not to start too late. The restaurant and bar in Kōke‘e Lodge closes at 4:30 p.m., and the weather can be unpredictable. Visitors may think they have been in the fog when they are in the clouds. Chris cautions against hiking at night to avoid dangerous encounters with wild pigs.

In the past, a permanent population never settled in the area known to be incredibly rich in native plant and bird life. Kia manu, Hawaiian bird catchers who used poles by that name to catch manu (birds), worked for the king. They collected feathers in Kōke‘e to adorn the raiments of ali‘i (royalty). The museum director explains Hawaiians “did not have gemstones and gold.” Rather, they stitched vibrantly colored bird feathers into the ‘ahū ‘ūla (cloaks), mahiole (helmets) and kāhili (staffs) of the chiefs. They used ingenious methods to catch birds, attaching a decoy or sticky paste to a pole they lifted high into the canopies of trees. Another group also worked for the king, caring for the koa trees.

Chris explains, “Fishing canoes, essential to the culture, were roughed out in the forest and dragged to communities near the ocean to be finished.” The koa that grows in Kōke‘e does not grow as tall and straight as it does on the Island of Hawai’i. Therefore, the branches need to be tended to direct a straight growth path. Koa wood was prized in ancient times for its symbolism, the word koa meaning “warrior.” The sacred wood symbolizes the characteristics of the warrior—strength and courage. Most important, considering the staggering decline of koa forests throughout Hawai‘i, is koa forests serve as refuges for the remaining species of native birds, thought to be just above thirty that have survived despite almost half of these being endangered.

People are lured to Kōke‘e for the breathtaking lookouts and interesting sights, so pay attention as they can be easily missed as you make your way up. Waimea Canyon Drive offers expansive views of the Island of Ni‘ihau to the left. Since it is inhabited by natives only, Ni‘ihau has earned the moniker

of the Forbidden Island. On the right, the views of Olokele Canyon and the mouth of Waimea Canyon continue to surprise. Pullovers exist for the safety and enjoyment of the views, but visitors must be sure to be well off the heavily traveled road. Halfway to Kōke‘e State Park, the road passes through a grand stand of eucalyptus forest. Ten miles up, visitors can get an eye feast of the Waimea Canyon. Welcome amenities at this lookout include cell service and a public restroom. Always remember that they are few and far between in this out-of-the-way place. Other lookouts on visitors’ lists include the Pu‘u Hinahina lookout at approximately 13.5 miles up the road. Cell service is available here but not beyond mile marker fourteen. It is famous for offering one of the canyon's most astonishing and sweeping views. This view extends down the valley and takes in the Pacific Ocean and another glimpse of the island of Ni‘ihau.

Mile marker fifteen designates Kōke‘e Park Headquarters, which comprises the museum, a picnic area, and, notably, another public restroom. The Kōke‘e Campground awaits those who have already secured permits and spaces by going online to Kōke‘e at Hawaii.gov. Chris tells visitors to book state cabins and campsites in advance as they cannot be booked on the same day. Conveniently, park entrance fees and tickets can be booked the same day through kiosks using credit cards. The four

major lookouts with parking lots have these kiosks. Before journeying further, visit the museum to learn more about this unique area and its unique history, especially to become familiar with the native birds and plants one might encounter to identify them. You will also spy koa right outside the museum window. A nine-hundred-foot trail is located just behind the museum to introduce the forest.

Two spectacular lookouts remain up the road, with yet another public restroom. The Kalalau Valley Lookout is at mile marker eighteen. It is frequently photographed framed by the sacred ‘ōhi‘a lehua tree perched at the top of the lookout. If you are lucky enough to visit during the Spring blooming season, you might recognize it by its beautiful and bold scarlet flowers. You might also see other ‘ōhia trees in the view plane. If so, count yourself lucky, as this tree has become endangered due to a disease called Rapid ‘Ōhi‘a Death (ROD), which has ravaged it on the Island of Hawai‘i. Let it also serve as a reminder of the fragile environment you have entered and to tread lightly by sticking to designated paths. This is true of hiking as well. Chris says that many people “do not realize how dangerous the soils are” as they contain “a lot of silica” making for extra-slippery terrain, especially when combined with rain. The end of the road and last lookout is the Pu‘u o Kila at nineteen miles. It is touted as providing an even better panoramic view of the Kalalau Valley than the Kalalau Lookout. It is also the gateway to the Pihea Trail which takes hikers over the upland Alakai Swamp, with the distinction of being the highest swamp in the world. It is the terrain of rare birds but a trail prone to muddiness and areas of slippery clay that can quickly turn dangerous with rain and fog. Being very quiet is the secret to seeing birds. Indeed, quiet is just the presence to take into this forest paradise. The natural experience is the paradise Kōke‘e has to offer: lookouts presenting unimaginable beauty, a bird song never heard before, a first encounter with the peeling bark of a eucalyptus tree and the protective feeling of being shaded by the canopy of a stand of koa trees. Visitors might catch a surprise glimpse of a native plant, for example, pālapalai, beloved by the hula goddess Laka and considered to be a sacred fern as it is used to decorate Hula altars. Many hidden gifts are waiting to be revealed or discovered by the visitor willing to become the seer.

HOME AGAIN

The sacred ground at Nu‘alolo Kai once again provides a safe haven for seabirds.

story MARY TROY JOHNSTON

Nu‘alolo Kai on Kaua‘i’s Nāpali Coast is an ancient Hawaiian fishing village and a continuous civilization from the twelfth century. The presentday site of incredibly rich and diverse archaeological artifacts is home to a once thriving coral reef, playground for honu (turtles) and ‘īlio holo i ka uaua (Hawaiian Monk Seals) and lost home to an abundant population of seabirds. Evidence of how Hawaiians lived centuries ago has often disintegrated in such a harsh natural environment. The vast discoveries on Nu‘alolo Kai are a gift to Hawaiians who have lost much of their history. Preservation of the artifacts has been attributed to the “overhanging cliff” that shielded the site and the “heavy sea spray, which permeated the deposits with salt.”

(Patrick Vinton Kirch, “Feathered Gods and Fishhooks: An Introduction to Hawaiian Archaeology and Prehistory”, University of Hawai‘i Press, 1985, p. 101) The artifacts revealed there were extensive and showed the activities of the inhabitants to be very specialized, complex and productive. The story told by the relics was also the story of a bird people. Tools made from bird bones were among the findings. For example, the residents crafted bird bones into sewing needles. The remains of the birds showed how plentiful they were, reminiscent of a time when flights of birds darkened the skies.

In old Hawai‘i, the birds were cherished as generous provisions of food and adornment, headdresses and capes fit for ali‘i (royalty). The ‘ahu ‘ula (cloak) and mahiole (helmet) artfully worked in feathers were stunningly attractive and provided spiritual protection for the wearer. Birds were essential to Hawaiian fishing villages. The fishermen worked in tandem with the feeding birds, following them to locate the catch. In old Hawai‘i, humans had a shared existence with nature based on mutual dependence and respect for their shared destiny.

The balance between birds and humans was disrupted with the introduction of mammals, of which there were none, except the Hawaiian Hoary Bat. When rats, feral cats, feral pigs and barn owls began to populate, seabirds were an incredibly vulnerable and delicate prey. Many seabirds lay one egg during nesting season, presenting a tasty morsel to predators. Furthermore, chicks are small and edible, as well as small adults typical of some species. Science Director André Raine for the Archipelago Research and Conservation LLC outlined the consequences of predation at Nu‘alolo Kai. Some species became extinct, going the way of approximately thirty percent of seabirds. Some of the remaining seabirds sought refuge away from predators on Nu‘alolo Kai. According to André, several suffered a “huge range contraction.”

The conservationist further describes the current state of affairs with seabirds that traditionally made their home at Nu‘alolo Kai. André says that there is a “good population” of akē ‘akē (band-rumped storm-petrel), although they are now restricted “way up into the cliffs,” making the species very hard to study. That is also true of a good population of endangered ‘a‘o (Newell’s shearwater) that took to the cliffs. Another species, ‘ou (Bulwer’s petrel) has not been identified yet as returning. Its small size makes it especially prone to predation. A cause for excitement is that the ‘ua‘u kani (wedge-tailed shearwater) has been recorded as making a return. The first nest was detected in 2021, and the first chick fledged in 2022. Excitement grew as the next year, there were five chicks. There is great expectation that having them back in a safe place will increase numbers quickly. André makes it clear that they are not endangered, but they have elsewhere been tragically “killed in the hundreds” by predators.

Part of the strategy for preparing a safe home for the returning birds has been to make marine plank nest boxes to give the seabirds a head-start in nesting. The nest boxes have a tunnel where the bird can enter a relatively safe environment. They are located on top of the ground and rocks are arranged around them to anchor the boxes. As Nu‘alolo Kai is sacred ground, volunteers are careful not to disturb the ground. Nest boxes offer several advantages. As some seabird species spend several years digging a burrow for a nest, the nest box will save a lot of time. The more controlled environment allows scientists to collect data and feed it into assessment programs. Notably, students at Island School took part in the project by painting the nest

boxes. André noted how important it is for community members “to connect with the natural environment” so they become more closely bonded with creatures usually out of their realm of experience. Volunteers for the Nā Pali Coast ‘Ohana, an organization that stewards this wahi pana (celebrated place), have been removing invasive plants for years and replanting native plants. They will eventually do this next to the next boxes to provide shade, enhancing the suitability of the nesting spots even more.

Before Nu‘alolo Kai is ready to host the return of seabirds, predator control needs to be more complete. Kaua›i-based Hallux Ecosystem Restoration LLC has the contract for Nu‘alolo Kai. Much has been accomplished and upon completion, a sound system consisting of bird sounds that mimics the scene of robust avian activity has been engineered to play at night when the seabirds return from sea. It is designed for social attraction as an invitation for the seabirds to return. It has yet to be fully employed until the rats are fully under control, but it has been tested early, attracting some circling birds. At Palmyra Atoll, midway between Hawai‘i and American Samoa, a seabird restoration effort in 2020 also utilized a sound system, nicknamed by researchers “seabird discotheques” that played recordings of bird calls from eight species that had long been absent from that location. (“Seabird Attraction Succeeds at Palmyra Atoll”, 22 May 2023, The Nature Conservancy, nature.org) Several years later, the presence of several Pākalakala (gray-backed tern) promised success. The researchers at Nu‘alolo Kai also feel they are turning a corner with their efforts and are looking forward to the impact of an increasing seabird population on the ecosystem's health. In addition to saving birds, they value being a part of the cultural revival symbolized by helping to return Nu‘alolo Kai to its natural state of abundant resources.

The story of the chain of effects of seabird guano (excrement) provides insight into a complex ecosystem with land and sea, creatures in the sky and under the water, flora on land and in the ocean, all tightly bound together in a network of connectedness. Seabirds travel far out to sea to feed on fish. For example, the ‘ou (Bulwer’s petrel) has been known to travel over a thousand miles searching for food. The fish diet is rich in nitrogen and phosphorus. As a result, seabird guano also becomes rich in these nutrients. When the seabirds return to land for breeding season, the guano they deposit nurtures the

soil and supports the growth of plants. When the rain produces run-off, the guano goes into the sea. Scientists have realized that the nutrients good for plants are also good for coral reefs. This is nothing short of amazing news for coral reefs that are troubled and at risk of surviving. The coral reef protecting Nu‘alolo Kai from ocean swells and providing a habitat for ocean life has been a grave concern as it has been steadily dying. The prospect that guano from returning seabirds may benefit the reef in years to come could not be timelier. The run-off of nitrogen and phosphorus feeds the algae, which helps the reef grow and become more resistant in case of a future bleaching event. In turn, it feeds the zooplankton that different forms of sea life depend on. Ideally, fish grow bigger, and the fish population becomes more diverse. The cycle continues as more fish are consumed by more seabirds and produce more guano, potentially offering a way out of the cycle of destruction of the coastal ecosystem. This natural process is linked to a feeding event in the far parts of the ocean, which has efficacious effects on the land and coast so far removed. This realization is a cause to rekindle our respect for nature and return to the natural wisdom of ancient Hawai‘i as the seabirds return home.

A Memorandum Of Agreement that Nā Pali Coast ‘Ohana has with the Division of Land and Natural Resources, Hallux, Archipelago Research and Conservation and American Bird Conservancy is responsible for this innovative and cooperative restoration effort.

SOCIAL ATTRACTION SITE ‘OU

‘UA‘U KANI

SHAPING TREASURES

With inspiration from the past, Jeremy Lloyd honors Hawaiian surf culture through his rideable art.

story

KRYSTAL KAKIMOTO

Like millions around the world, Jeremy and Ivory Lloyd found their daily lives brought to a halt by the COVID-19 pandemic. With over twenty years of experience in the visitor industry, Jeremy found himself unemployed when the hotel he was working at closed. At the same time, the couple’s two young children, who had been enrolled in a Hawaiian immersion school, were now at home, and the pair tried to find things to keep their children engaged while figuring out their next steps.

During this time, Jeremy gravitated to woodworking, a hobby he acquired growing up as the son of a cabinet maker. He and the couple’s oldest son began working on a wa‘a (canoe) when Ivory was inspired. As a lei (floral garland) maker, she envisioned a long table shaped like a surfboard to create her lei. Once the table was finished, Jeremy and the couple’s sons were curious to see if this surfboard-shaped table could be surfed upon. After finding success catching waves on their newly crafted creation, Jeremy was invigorated to produce more boards and learn about the art of surfboard making.

Initially, Jeremy worked with wood found on the couple’s North Shore property. Ivory recalls, “During the pandemic, finding materials to work with was tough. At first, Jeremy carved surfboards from wood

around our home. Slowly, word spread about what he was doing, and friends and tree trimmers started offering wood from their backyards. It was cool to work with locally sourced woods and experiment with what wood types floated.”

One of the first surfboards Jeremy created was an alai’a, a style of surfboard whose roots can be traced to pre-contact Hawai‘i. The thin, roundnosed boards were generally made from koa and featured no ventral fins, contrasting modern boards. In addition to Jeremy and their children testing the boards, he created alai’a boards for the kids in their neighborhood to surf and give him feedback. These alai’a boards featured asymmetrical tails, a signature design for Lloyd Boards. “The asymmetrical alai’a is seen on my company logo. Carl Esktrom created asymmetric boards in the 1960s. With asymmetrical boards, the long edge of the board makes contact with the face of the wave and the short edge is your cut-back side. There is a shorter radius and shorter turn on your cut-back side.”

In addition to the alai’a boards that range from five to eight feet in length, Jeremy creates many other pre-contact style surfboards like paipo boards, measuring five feet and under, and kiko‘o boards, measuring eight feet and up. Jeremy points to his pre-dawn research sessions when asked where his

PHOTO COURTESY: (ALL) LLOYD BOARDS

inspiration comes from to create new boards. “Some days, I wake up at about 4 a.m. and research how ancient Hawaiians created their surfboards. I tend to come up with my ideas while drinking my coffee.”

As with the ancient Hawaiians, Jeremy uses several kinds of wood when making his surfboards. “For the boards to surf, I stick with ulu, koa and wili wili, like the Hawaiians used. In my research, I also found that indigenous communities worldwide have used Paulownia wood to make surfboards, similar to kukui trees. That led me to create surfboards from kukui wood, too.” In addition to surfboards, Jeremy creates boards that can be displayed as art pieces. He incorporates other woods, such as locally grown hau (Talipariti tiliaceum), lychee and mango, for these boards From boards created from single slabs of wood to boards like his “Hapa” boards, which blend different types of wood, Jeremy’s product line continues to grow organically. From his “Finnie” board that features inlays of tiny skegs to improve the surfers’ directional stability to his “Dad Bod,” which is longer and wider than his typical boards, he has become versed in creating boards ranging from pre-contact Hawai‘i to the present.

Through it all, this husband-and-wife team has ridden the waves of growth and appreciates what

Lloyd Boards is becoming. “One of our biggest concerns was creating a business that fits into our lifestyle of being near the ocean and surfing. When Jeremy and I first met, we surfed daily, and our family continues to bond over the ocean. When the pandemic happened, and we were thinking about what we wanted to do in our next chapter, we wanted to make sure our business fit into our lifestyle. We wanted to ensure our lives were sustainable and that we could continue to do the things we loved, like spending time with our children and friends,” said Ivory. “Our goal is to normalize seeing alai’a surfboards in the lineup, to get more alai’a surfboards in the hands of keiki (children) and to do the work now to benefit future generations.”

Lloyd Boards is revitalizing surfboards but looking for inspiration from the past, blending old and new with their extraordinary way of perpetuating Hawaiian culture by creating surfable art.

Visit their online store for current inventory or to create a custom board at lloydboards.com. Available at ‘Ohana Shop in Hanalei (ohanashop. com) and Sway Island Living in Kīlauea. Jeremy’s woodworking and surfboard tables are displayed at his daughter’s coffeeshop, The Haven (Instagram @ thehavenkauai).

Dynamic Duo

Husband and wife chef team Hanna and Kenny Uddifa lead Bar Acuda in its next chapter.

Tempting guests for nearly a decade, Bar Acuda is known for its Spanishstyle tapas, which fuse the flavors of the Mediterranean with locally sourced ingredients. Opened in 2005 by chef and restaurateur Jim Moffat, Bar Acuda gained a reputation on the island as a hot spot where guests could relax in their outdoor dining lanai while feasting on flavorful dishes. Current chef-owners Hanna and Kenny Uddifa joined Bar Acuda in 2012 as part of the kitchen team working closely with Moffat to learn about the vision and core values of the restaurant. After being named chefs of Bar Acuda in 2017, they took ownership in 2023 and strive to maintain the same level of quality while breathing new life into the restaurant with their everevolving seasonal menu.

story KRYSTAL KAKIMOTO images KEITH KETCHUM

Hanna and Kenny explain that their dishes are meant to be shared, bringing diners together in their sophisticated yet understated atmosphere. Their chef-driven menu allows the duo to take advantage of the freshest produce grown on the island and playfully experiment with locally grown products. One dish that epitomizes the flavor profile of Bar Acuda and its dedication to working with local ingredients is its Local Cucumber Salad. The dish starts with chunks of locally grown Japanese cucumbers topped with diced avocado tossed in a white balsamic vinaigrette, allowing for just enough mixing to bring out the creaminess of the avocado while still retaining its structure. Feta cheese, local herbs and crispy garbanzo beans garnish the dish, making for a bright, refreshing salad that is creamy, crunchy and satisfying.

Another must-try chef creation is their Seared Sea Scallops, which start with plump scallops grown in the nutrient-dense waters of Hokkaido, Japan. The seared scallops are placed on a mound of Yukon gold mashed potatoes and topped with aromatic garlic, shallots and chili lemon crisp. Guests looking for a dish synonymous with tapas-style restaurants, the chefs offer their Papas Ajo, their play on Patatas Bravas, a dish native to Spain. Their rendition starts with deep-fried potatoes tossed in fresh garlic and parsley with Spanish paprika aioli, resulting in a memorable dish you will crave for years.

The delicately layered flavors of their dishes are heightened when paired with offerings from their wine, beer and cocktail menu. Guests can select from their curated wine list showcasing wines ranging from velvetsmooth French Crémants to aromatic Spanish Albariños, rustic Châteauneuf-du-Papes and bold California Cabernets. In addition to its spectacular wine list, Bar Acuda offers draught beers, both with and without alcohol, allowing guests options of which style they wish to enjoy. For a true treat, their mixologists create

delicious specialty cocktails like their Hanalei Spritz, which is excellent as an aperitif or enjoyed during your meal. Their Hanalei Spritz starts with Uncle Val’s Botanical Gin, a glutenfree gin that bursts with juniper, cucumber, lemon, sage and lavender flavors. Next, liliko‘i (passionfruit) puree is added, as well as Aperol liqueur and Cava rosé, creating an uplifting, slightly fizzy drink that is perfect to start your meal. The bar also offers numerous specialty non-alcoholic beverages for guests of all ages. From the Guava Spritzer to the Mango-Ginger Limeade, their non-alcoholic beverages add an extra zip of flavor to your meal and are a fun way to cleanse your palate between bites.

As your meal winds down, the chefs have more sweet offerings to tempt guests’ taste buds, each dish with its unexpected twist. One popular dessert is their Cold Brew Pot de Crème, which features a smooth coffee custard topped with cinnamon meringue and served with hazelnut biscotti. This perfect dessert is balanced and not too sweet. Another crowd favorite that wows with presentation is their Coconut Sorbet, which starts with house-made coconut sorbet infused with the distinctive

flavor of cardamom. A dark chocolate magic shell drizzles atop the flawless sorbet before toasted coconut chips are arranged as a garnish.

The exceptional charm of Bar Acuda is one thing Hanna and Kenny strive to sustain. “We try to balance a laid-back feel and attentive service,” says Chef Kenny. “What I love the most about Bar Acuda is our menu’s unique approach to food and sharing. It is an approachable way of dining.” In addition to maintaining their high standards of quality in terms of dishes and ingredients, both Hanna and Kenny also focus on cultivating relationships with local fishermen, farmers and purveyors to emphasize a sense of place via the ingredients they cook with.

Dine in the soft glow of their indoor-outdoor dining areas as you spend the night sharing food with family and friends, enjoying food and drinks that are locally sourced and crafted with love.

Bar Acuda; 5-5161 Kūhiō Hwy., Hanalei; (808) 826-7081; Open Tuesday through Saturday from 5:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m.; cudahanalei.com.

Chef Mark Arriola

Growing up along the waters of Corpus Christi, Texas, Chef Mark Arriola was surrounded by a family that valued spending time together and sharing food. Today, he continues to forge relationships over food by creating partnerships with local ranchers, farmers and fishermen, bringing the best ingredients to the kitchens of Living Foods, a café and grocery shop in historic Kōloa. Living Foods features a hyper-local menu emphasizing handmade products that reflects their dedication to supporting the local community and protecting the ‘āina (land) and the unique way of life found on Kaua‘i.

story KRYSTAL KAKIMOTO

What are some of your earliest memories surrounding food or cooking?

My grandfather was a butcher, so I remember we always had meat on our table and often less common cuts of meat.

I remember Sunday BBQs when the grill would always be going and all my aunts, uncles and cousins would come over. My grandmother was also a great cook, and she cooked classic Mexican dishes, but what really stood out was my grandfather because he always played around [with his cooking]. He didn’t have recipes but would experiment and have fun in the kitchen.

What was your first job in a kitchen?

When I was fifteen, I got a job at French’s Crab House on the water in Corpus Christi. I was hired to shuck oysters, and we would go through a thousand oysters a day! I was there for a while and learned a lot. I waited tables, worked the line and always enjoyed being in the kitchen. That environment captured me at an early age, and I stayed in the restaurant industry ever since.

Was there a moment that you realized you wanted to be a chef?

At first, I worked in restaurants until I figured out what I wanted to do with my life. I went to college and was a Psychology major, then a Marine Biology major. In my twenties, I realized I had worked in restaurants throughout everything, so I went into Hospitality Management. Later, I attended culinary school in Colorado, and once I got into my first culinary class and kitchen lab, it was clear I wanted to do that.

How did you move from culinary school in Colorado to Maui, working at Merriman’s Bamboo Bistro?

It was the luck of the draw. The director of my culinary program knew Peter Merriman and called him to tell him about me. It just so happened Peter was opening a new

restaurant on Maui and needed a sous chef. After talking on the phone, Peter flew my family and me to Maui and offered me the job! I was there for about four years when we decided to move back to Texas after our second child was born. We moved to San Antonio because we had family support and ended up opening a small restaurant.

How did your path lead you back to Hawai‘i, specifically, the island of Kaua‘i?

We had been in San Antonio for a while, and my wife said she was ready to return to Hawai‘i. I called Peter right away and asked if he needed any help anywhere. Luckily, he needed a chef on Kaua‘i, and three days later, we signed a deal! I took over as Executive Chef of Merriman’s on Kaua‘i, and that’s how I met Nicole Freedland, a General Manager at the Beach House and now the President & Managing Partner of Living Foods. An opportunity presented itself for us to reopen Living Foods, which had closed down during the pandemic. We kept the name because people knew of it, and we kept the concept, but the food and market have changed. We opened in September 2021, and it’s been great!

How would you describe Living Foods’s menu to someone who has never been there?

I’d use the word fresh. Everything we make is made in-house and from scratch. We bring in a steer every week and break it down inhouse. Our lettuce is grown locally, and our fish is sourced from local waters. We even have a farmers market right outside our restaurant every Wednesday and will head out there to buy directly from the farmers.

What are some of your favorite menu items at Living Foods?

I think our salads are great! I wanted to focus on building salads that were like entrées. One of my favorites is called the Provisions salad. This salad is dressed with lemon juice and olive oil, with the flavor profile coming from all our fresh herbs. We use parsley, tarragon, mint—tons of chopped herbs—and crunchy romaine lettuce from Hirabara Farms on the Big Island. It also has feta cheese for the salt, chicken, garbanzo beans, tomatoes and avocado for some creaminess. It’s a solid salad!

Why are your relationships with local farmers, ranchers and fishermen important?

One of the things very important to me is supporting our community of growers. We don’t set prices for our products, rather, we let them tell us what they need to sell their products for. During the pandemic, everything was closed down, and many of our farmers, ranchers and fishermen struggled to sell their stuff. One example is Kevin Yamase, whom we consider “The Fish Whisperer” of Kaua‘i. His boat was sitting, and he wasn’t fishing during the pandemic. This man worked his whole life fishing, putting his girls through school and supporting his household with what he caught. Knowing he needed help, I decided to get him fishing again and, through social media, would buy his catch, butcher the fish and sell it at cost to the community. Folks got cheap fish and he was able to do what he loves.

Working with farmers is cool. We’ve gone through seed catalogs and asked them to grow specific crops for us. Many people will have kale, lettuce or herbs, but we can work with local farmers to tap into other things not grown on the

island while supporting their businesses.

What are some ingredients that are mainstays of your kitchen at home?

I grow a lot of herbs and chiles. I use dry chiles to make sauces and love fresh jalapeños. I also like having different limu (seaweed) types in my fridge and freezer. I like to use limu when cooking fish. I’ll steam the fish, chop up the limu with a little shoyu (soy sauce), ginger and garlic, and spread that on top of the fish.

Whether creating dishes to reflect the flavors of Kaua‘i or working with local farmers to bring new produce to the island, Chef Mark Arriola is working to bring together the culinary community on Kaua‘i so everyone thrives in sustainable ways.

Living Foods; The Shops at Kukui‘ula, 2829 Ala Kalanikaumaka Street, Suite D124, Kōloa; (808) 320-7642; livingfoodshawaii.com; Market & Café open daily from 7 a.m. to 9 p.m.; Daily Brunch from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m.; Daily Dinner from 3 p.m. to 9 p.m.

Culinary Fusion

Fusing the flavors of Japanese and Italian cooking with daring degrees of mixology, Naisla Kitchen & Cocktails is revolutionizing Kaua‘i’s culinary scene, marking a new era for upscale dining on the island. Opened in 2023, the chefs of Naisla aim to present guests with a symphony of tastes and textures while using the plate as their canvas. Guests can open their meals with a selection of appetizers like the wildly popular Tuna Carpaccio, which features Hawaiian caught yellowfin ahi dressed with truffle ponzu (soy citrus) sauce, shaved parmesan cheese and fresh arugula. Equally delicious are their pasta offerings, including Lobster Linguine—squid ink linguine tossed in a lobster bisque beneath a butter-poached lobster tail—and Pork Belly Spaghetti, which features a dashi pork broth and a piece of melt-in-your-mouth, sous vide pork belly. Their meshing of cuisines continues into their entrée course with dishes like Soy Braised Short Ribs served with creamy risotto and Day Boat Seafood served with yuzu (Japanese citron) sauce atop soba (buckwheat) noodles. Not to be forgotten are their cocktails meant to enhance the dining experience and provide innovative twists on classic drinks. One must-try cocktail is their Elder Flower Sangria which starts with aromatic Sauvignon Blanc mixed with Saint Germaine liqueur and topped with a Champagne float. From start to finish, meals at Naisla Kitchen & Cocktails are unforgettable experiences for all your senses.

Naisla Kitchen & Cocktails; Located in Shops at Wailua Kai; 4-369 Kūhiō Hwy., Kapa‘a; (808) 8550294; naisla.com; Open Monday through Thursday from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m., Saturday from 12 p.m. to 11 p.m. and Sunday from 12 p.m. to 9 p.m.

PHOTO COURTESY: NAISLA KITCHEN + COCKTAILS

Bowls of Love

Rich, slow-cooked broths and fresh, local ingredients come together at Hapa Kaua‘i, where guests can enjoy some of the best bowls of ramen on the island in their chic, open-air restaurant. The Hapa Ramen company’s humble origins began in Portland, Oregon, when husband-and-wife team Michael and Sara Littman launched Hapa as a food cart in 2013. After gaining a cult-like following, the duo opened a brick-and-mortar location in 2019, and later, in 2022, the couple opened their Pō‘ipu location in The Shops at Kukui‘ula. The highly lauded menu incorporates as many local ingredients as possible, fusing the island’s flavors. The signature Hapa G-Special Ramen starts with a rich broth made from pork belly and chicken. The broth and noodles are topped with pork belly nuggets, pickled shiitake mushrooms, spicy bean sprouts, house-made chili crunch, nori

(seaweed), negi (onions) and a marinated egg. Another stellar ramen is Shoyu Ramen, which starts with a broth made from slowly cooked chicken, fish bones and organic shoyu (soy sauce). Succulent cha shu pork is laid on the noodles and finished with spinach, nori, negi and their trademark marinated egg. For vegan guests, the Vegan Option Ramen packs all the flavor and comfort of traditional ramen with vegetable-based broth topped with bean curds and konnyaku (Japanese yam) noodles. Visit Hapa Kaua‘i to satisfy your ramen cravings and indulge in their delectable offerings.

Hapa Kaua‘i; Located in The Shops at Kukui‘ula; 2829 Ala KalanikaumakaRoad, Suite F205, Kōloa; (808) 631-0919; hapakauai.com; Open Monday through Saturday from 4:30 p.m. to 9:00 p.m., Happy Hour 4:30 p.m. to 5:30 p.m.

Grandma's Cookin'

In 2017, Keiko Napier, whose father was a Japan-trained master chef, set out to open a cozy restaurant serving food to nourish the body and soul with the freshest products possible, just like a Japanese grandma would have served. Located in a former dry goods emporium built in 1931 in historic Hanapēpē town on the island's south shore, the café is now one of the most popular Japanese restaurants on the island. Open for lunch and dinner, guests can select from her extensive sushi menu offering both traditional and modern styles of sushi. The Hanapēpē Roll is a noteworthy roll that starts with a crispy piece of shrimp tempura wrapped in rice. The roll is topped with slices of eel, avocado, tenkatsu (crunchy, fried pieces of tempura batter) pieces, and a drizzle of eel sauce. Guests have the option to select dinner entrees from both the land and the sea. Their mammoth menu, which includes sashimi, ramen, sake and more, is an epicurean’s delight.

Japanese Grandma's; 3871 Hanapepe Rd., Hanapēpē; Open ThursdayMonday from 11:30 a.m. to 8 p.m.; 808-855-5016; japanesegrandma.com.

KIT FURDERER; (OPPOSITE) KEITH KETCHUM

Coffee Trucks

Whether you need a jolt of caffeine to start your day or are looking for a midday pick-me-up, Sunrise Coffee has some of the best craft coffees, lattes, bagels and pastries to fuel you while enjoying your day in paradise. Their skilled baristas expertly pull fresh espresso shots for their variety of lattes. One crowd favorite is the ultra-smooth Mac Nut Latte flavored with the gentle sweetness of macadamia nuts. Regulars to the food truck also rave about their Raspberry White Mocha Lattes that strike a good balance between raspberry’s tartness and white chocolate’s sweetness. Others line up daily for freshly made cold brews, iced chais and smoothies that feature locally grown fruits. Once you’ve secured your beverage, check out their selection of freshly made pastries that change daily and are showcased on their social media accounts to keep customers

in the know. Sunrise Coffee has the right treat for almost every customer, from apple turnovers to iced cinnamon rolls and even housemade doughnuts in flavors like rose chai and churro. For those not in the mood for pastries, the food truck also offers substantial Açaí Bowls that start with a large portion of blended açaí topped with your choice of fruits like bananas, strawberries and pineapples. One insider tip is to opt for the peanut butter drizzle that makes your açaí bowl an excellent blend of sweet, salty and savory.

Sunrise Coffee Kaua‘i; 3-3716 Kūhiō Hwy., Līhu‘e; (808) 245-6720; Instagram @ sunrisecoffeekauai; Open Monday from 6 a.m. to 4 p.m., Tuesday through Friday from 6 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., Saturday from 6:30 a.m. to 4 p.m., and Sunday from 6:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.

Uniting Cultures

Nestled on the sun-drenched south shore of Kaua‘i, the historic town of Kōloa harbors a story that has shaped the very essence of Hawai‘i. The inception of Kōloa Plantation in 1835 marked the beginning of the sugar industry in the islands, forever altering the lives of its people. Today, though the mills have ceased operations, the legacy of those plantation days continues to pulse through the veins of Hawai‘i, particularly in Kōloa and Po‘ipū. It is this enduring spirit that the Kōloa Plantation Days Festival celebrates, weaving together the past and present in a vibrant tapestry of culture, history and community.

The festival traces its roots back to 1985, during the sugar industry’s sesquicentennial celebration, when a simple lū‘au sparked a desire for more communal gatherings. Inspired by the warm reception, Phyllis Kunimura, a prominent Kōloa community figure,

alongside her husband, Mayor Tony Kunimura, envisioned an annual event that would echo the camaraderie and spirit of those plantation days. Thus, Kōloa Plantation Days was born, blossoming under the care of Phyllis and a dedicated team of volunteers into an eagerly anticipated yearly celebration.

Each year, the festival breathes life into the plantation lifestyle through many family-oriented events, encapsulating themes central to plantation life such as education, family, healthcare, cuisine and music. The parade, a festival hallmark, along with various other activities, strives to embody these themes, offering a glimpse into a bygone era. A particularly nostalgic moment is the appearance of “Paulo”—a steam locomotive from the Grove Farm Homestead, whose whistle resonates with the historical sounds of cane transport by train.

Kōloa Plantation Days transcends mere celebration, offering a platform for education and cultural immersion. The festival invites families to delve into the rich heritage of Kōloa and the broader plantation narrative of Hawai‘i through Hawaiian games, historical videos, guided walks, cooking demonstrations and more. These events entertain and enlighten, fostering a deeper appreciation for the island’s history among visitors and locals alike.

The heart of Kōloa Plantation Days lies in its community. The steering committee and the residents of Kaua‘i’s south shore extend a warm welcome to all, embodying the true spirit of aloha. This invitation to celebrate, learn and connect makes Kōloa Plantation Days a unique and heartfelt experience, reflecting the enduring legacy of the plantation era and its impact on Hawai‘i’s cultural landscape.

As Koloa Plantation Days continues to flourish, it stands as a testament to the resilience, diversity and unity of Hawai‘i’s people, inviting everyone to partake in a celebration that bridges past and present, fostering a lasting bond with the rich heritage of the islands.

Kōloa Plantation Days runs July 18-28, 2024. Visit koloaplantationdays.com for the full schedule.

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GO GRAND

ANARA SPA AT GRAND HYATT KAUAI

Rediscover you. Unwind with a soothing facial or massage as healing customs blend with fresh island botanicals leaving you relaxed and refreshed.

- Facilities include sauna, steam, whirlpool, cardio/weights, fitness classes.

- Full service hair and nail salon.

- FloatPod and LightStim therapy to optimize peak performance.

- Boutique features luxe skin and hair care plus comfortable island-wear.

- Day, monthly and yearly passes available.

A Hawaiian spa experience like no other. Visit grandhyattkauai.com or call 808.240.6440.

SEE + DO

NI‘IHAU + NĀPALI COAST SUPER TOUR boat tour

NĀPALI COAST SNORKEL SAIL boat tour

NĀPALI COAST SEA CAVES boat tour

NĀPALI COAST PRIVATE CHARTERS boat tour

JURASSIC PARK LANDING ADVENTURE air tour

GLIDE ABOVE KAUA‘I’S GRANDEUR air tour

LUXURY HELICOPTER EXPERIENCE air tour

DOORS-OFF HELICOPTER EXPERIENCE air tour

HISTORICAL TRAIN RIDE AT KILOHANA historical tour

‘ŌPAEKA‘A FALLS hiking & waterfall

LŪ‘AU KALAMAKU lū‘au

LŪ‘AU KA HIKINA lū‘au

RUM SAFARI tasting tour

TAHITI NUI LŪ‘AU lū‘au

KAUA‘I OCEAN DISCOVERY CENTER

WAIMEA CANYON & KOKE‘E ADVENTURE sightseeing tour

KĪLAUEA LIGHTHOUSE historical site

WAILUA FALLS sightseeing

NA ‘ĀINA KAI BOTANICAL GARDENS & SCULPTURE PARK garden tour

KALALAU VALLEY LOOKOUT sightseeing

WAIMEA CANYON STATE PARK sightseeing & hiking MĀHĀ‘ULEPŪ

Ultimate Kaua‘i Off-Road Ranch Tour

OFF-ROAD in LĪHU‘E

› EXPLORE DIVERSE LANDSCAPES

› LEARN ABOUT KIPU RANCH HISTORY

› FOR BEGINNERS OR SERIOUS RIDERS

Take a beautiful and breathtaking 3-hour Kauai off-road scenic tour through Kipu Ranch. With diverse landscape, abundant wildlife and spectacular views, this signature tour makes Kipu Ranch one of the premier eco-tour locations in Hawai‘i. Ride through lush green pastures, venture down into tropical Hulē‘ia Valley and ascend under the canopy of the rainforest, as it leads you to the breathtaking backdrop of Mt. Hā‘upu, Kaua‘i’s untouched paradise. Enjoy the historic landscape with photos of famous movie locations such as Jurassic Park, Indiana Jones: Raiders of the Lost Ark and The Descendants. From kama‘āina to visitors from around the world, this tour will leave you speechless!

Waterfall Triple Trail Expedition

Experienced guides will lead you through an expansive 3,000-acre trail system on a working cattle ranch, which is full of breathtaking scenery, blockbuster movie hits, cultural history and Hawaiian legends. You will navigate your own vehicle throughout the different trails and obstacles to a private waterfall, bamboo jungles and much more! This tour holds nothing back. Here you’ll find well-maintained top of the line ultra-smooth suspension vehicles. A well thought out and crafted route is where great expeditions begin; and they have mapped out just that. Traverse the best open view, mountain and jungle sections of all three of their trail systems combined into one epic trip.

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Kipu Ranch Adventures

(808) 246-9288

• KipuTours.com

235 Kipu Rd., Līhu‘e (Map H, PG 168)

Ni‘ihau + Nāpali Coast Super Tour

› 65’ KAUA‘I-BUILT POWER CATAMARAN

› VOTED 2ND BEST US BOAT TOUR

› A FULL DAY OF FUN & ADVENTURE!

Say yes to adventure and create memories to last a lifetime. Snorkel one of the most remote and pristine tropical reefs off the “Forbidden Island” of Ni‘ihau and sightsee the historic Nāpali Coast in one amazing day. Holo Holo Charters is the only company to offer this amazing tour daily. The adventure begins with sightseeing along the world-famous Nāpali Coast. Capture some great memories with picture-perfect backdrops of cliffs, valleys, waterfalls and more. The adventure continues as we head to Ni‘ihau to explore the waters of Lehua Crater. Here you will have the opportunity to snorkel in cobalt blue waters, viewing endemic fish, endangered monk seals, underwater lava cathedrals and much more.

Nāpali Coast Snorkel Sail

Say yes to adventure with this exclusive Nāpali snorkeling & sailing tour. Holo Holo Charters invites you to go cruising on their Kaua‘i-built catamaran for a day of fun, sightseeing, snorkeling and sailing. Voyage to Kaua‘i’s world-famous Nāpali Coast with the wind in your sails. Take in the breathtaking 4,000-foot cliffs from sea-level to really capture the scale and beauty of this enchanting place. Complete the trip with a snorkel stop along Kaua‘i’s coast to view tropical fish, turtles and other local marine life. Breakfast, lunch and drinks are all included in this memorable tour for the whole family.

› 50’ KAUA‘I-BUILT SAILING CATAMARAN

› ONBOARD WATERSLIDE TO THE NĀPALI

› SNORKELING EQUIPMENT & INSTRUCTION

Holo Holo Charters (808) 335-0815 • HoloHoloCharters.com

4353 Waialo Rd., #5A, Ele‘ele (Map, D, PG 165)

Nāpali Coast Sea Caves

› SEE ASTONISHING SCENERY

› SMALLER CAPACITY BOATS LEND TO A MORE INTIMATE TOUR EXPERIENCE

Join locally owned and operated Na Pali Experience on their Nāpali Coast boat tours for an unforgettable experience at one of the most spectacular attractions in the world. Often regarded as the most beautiful portion of Hawai‘i, the 17-mile stretch of coastline known as the Nāpali Coast is a must see. Experience the magic of sea caves and crystal-clear waters on a choice of two boats that handle the seas well and fit into all the caves along the coast. Each cave is unique and special in its own way but “Double Door” or Wai‘ahu‘akua in Hawaiian is a favorite. On one side you enter a giant amphitheater cave, but as you continue around the cave, it reveals a spectacular waterfall that cascades from several thousand feet. Their small-group adventures include whale watching in winter, snorkeling in summer at Nu‘alolo Kai— the best snorkel spot— and viewing the valleys, beaches, caves and waterfalls on the coast.

Na Pali Experience

(808) 635-1131 • NapaliExperience.com

Kikia‘ola Small Boat Harbor, Kekaha (Map A, PG 162)

Nāpali Coast Private Charters

Private tours are without question the best way to enjoy a day of sightseeing, snorkeling or whale watching along the Nāpali Coast. If you are looking to experience a once-in-a-lifetime personalized trip with a small group, Na Pali Experience’s topof-the-line, six-person, power catamaran offers a unique and personal experience of the Nāpali Coast. Bring your family and friends for a relaxing day on the water where you’ll have the personal attention of the captain and crew. Instead of listening to narrations, knowledge is passed conversationally, and instead of being a face in the crowd, their private charters feel more like hanging out on a boat with friends. Their private and small-group explorations of Kauai’s beautiful coast will expose you to spectacular views, including secret beaches, sea cliff waterfalls, hanging valleys and gaping caves. If your party size is larger than six, their 35-ft deluxe power catamaran accommodates 18 guests comfortably.

Na Pali Experience

(808) 635-1131 • NapaliExperience.com

Kikia‘ola Small Boat Harbor, Kekaha (Map A, PG 162)

› AN INTIMATE, PRIVATE TOUR EXPERIENCE

› SNORKELING, SIGHTSEEING AND SEASONAL HUMPBACK WHALE WATCHING

Jurassic Falls Landing Adventure

› THE ONLY WAY TO LAND AT THE FALLS

› WALK THE SITE OF FILM, JURASSIC PARK

› GREAT VALUE + UNFORGETTABLE ADVENTURE

In this tour offered only by Island Helicopters, you’ll land at the epic Manawaiopuna (Jurassic) Falls and learn the fascinating history of this remote area. Discover native plants, geologic formations and explore the grounds of this breathtaking setting of Jurassic Park with your experienced guide. Island Helicopters’ exclusive landing access to the 400-foot falls makes this a one-ofa-kind, high-value experience for Jurassic fans and adventure-seekers alike. In addition to the landing adventure, you’ll see Kaua‘i’s other magnificent landmarks from the sky with the Grand Skies Island Tour included. Island Helicopters flies with custom, ceiling-to-floor windows for optimum viewing and comfort. This tour is 75-80 minutes total and is only offered five days a week.

Island Helicopters Kauai (808) 245-8588 • IslandHelicopters.com

3788 Ahukini Rd, Līhu‘e (Map H, PG 168)

Glide Above Kaua‘i’s Grandeur

Founded in 1980, Island Helicopters is Kaua‘i’s most experienced air tour company. With safety and comfort as a priority, all trips fly with doors on and welcome guests of all ages. A signature of Island Helicopters, the Grand Skies Island Tour, soars past Kaua‘i’s most stunning landmarks, like Waimea Canyon, the Nāpali Coast, and Manawaiopuna Falls (made famous in the blockbuster Jurassic Park). Island Helicopters flies closer to Kaua‘i’s spectacular landscapes and offers the most affordable rates on the island. All pilots are locals of Kaua‘i and possess thousands of hours of flight time. Legacy, safety and adventure combine to yield an unforgettable journey above this breathtaking island. This tour is 50-55 minutes total. Please contact Island Helicopters for more details.

Island Helicopters Kauai

(808) 245-8588

• IslandHelicopters.com

3788 Ahukini Rd, Līhu‘e (Map H, PG 168)

› LOCALLY OWNED/OPERATED 40+ YEARS

› ISLAND HELICOPTERS' SIGNATURE TOUR

› BEST RATE FOR A KAUA‘I AIR TOUR

Luxury Helicopter Experience

AIR TOUR in LĪHU‘E

› FLY IN STYLE IN A EUROCOPTER ASTAR

› 60-MINUTE TOUR

› SPACIOUS CABIN + PLUSH INTERIOR

Soar around Kaua‘i’s most awe-inspiring views in the comfort of a 6-passenger AStar, designed for providing a smooth and luxurious ride. From luscious valleys to rugged coastlines to dramatic canyons, bear witness to Kaua‘i’s unparalleled natural beauty. You will feel like a celebrity in the aircraft’s spacious cabin with custom made floor-to-ceiling windows for optimal viewing, air conditioning and Bose noise-canceling headsets. With no age restrictions, this tour is perfect for your entire family. Gain a new perspective of the island on this tour, as over 70% of Kaua‘i is inaccessible by land. We can guarantee you will never forget gliding through the Wai‘ale‘ale Crater and its 3000' waterfalls or flying down the stunning 17-mile Nāpali coastline.

Jack Harter Helicopters

(808) 245-3774

• Helicopters-Kauai.com

4231 Ahukini Rd, Līhu‘e (Map H, PG 168)

Doors-Off Helicopter Experience

Feel the cool breeze on your face and smell the tropical rainforest as you fly in and out of lush valleys. Fully immerse yourself in the beauty of Kaua‘i on a thrilling doors-off helicopter tour. Experienced pilots will safely guide you throughout the 60-minute tour, offering interesting facts and history about the area. Witness the jaw-dropping Nāpali Coast, Waimea Canyon, Wai‘ale‘ale crater and many others from a bird’s-eye-view. There is nothing but your camera between you and the island’s most picturesque landscapes, making it the ideal tour for photographers. Not only seeing the grandeur of Kaua‘i but truly feeling it is what makes this tour an experience like no other.

› NO DOORS = A PHOTOGRAPHER'S DREAM!

› A 60-65 MINUTE TOUR WITH UP TO 4 PASSENGERS IN AN MD HUGHES 500

Jack Harter Helicopters

(808) 245-3774 • Helicopters-Kauai.com

4231 Ahukini Rd, Līhu‘e (Map H, PG 168)

Historical Train Ride at Kilohana

Climb aboard this 40-minute conductor-narrated tour of the 105-acre Kilohana Plantation in the same type of locomotive used in the sugarcane fields. Relax in the mahogany and ipe wood cars while you are entertained and educated by knowledgeable conductors. The 2.5-mile rail line passes stands of original island crops like sugarcane and taro, and you will pass groves of mango, banana, papaya, pineapple and native and exotic hardwoods from around the world. Learn about Kaua‘i’s agriculture and history. Well out into the heart of the plantation you will disembark to spend time feeding the pigs, goats, sheep and their friendly donkey, Steiny. For the total experience, enjoy a guided 3.5 hour tour, complete with train ride, lunch from The Plantation House by Gaylord's, history, and a 1.5-mile walk to explore the grounds and sample fruits from twelve acres of exotic tropical trees. There is something for everyone. It’s fun for all ages.

Kauai Plantation Railway at Kilohana (808) 245-7245 • KilohanaKauai.com

3-2087 Kaumuali‘i Hwy., Līhu‘e (Map H, PG 168)

‘Ōpaeka‘a Falls

HIKING & WATERFALL on the EAST SIDE

High in the hills of Wailua, once the center of court and religious life on Kaua‘i, is the lookout to one of the most consistent and easily viewed waterfalls on the island—‘Ōpaeka‘a Falls. Shrouded in a heavy forest of trees, ferns and native fauna, this popular waterfall offers visitors dynamic photo opportunities without the strain of a long hike. This beautiful waterfall is the easiest to view, as it tumbles out of the jungle into a dramatic plunge over a high cliff about a 150-feet into the Wailua River. The name means "rolling shrimp," for the days when swarms of shrimp were seen rolling in turbulent waters at the base of the falls. The best time to view the cascading falls is mid-morning, and the best view is from the path along the highway.

Located on the ‘Ōpaeka‘a Stream in Wailua River State Park Take Hwy 50 to Kuamo‘o Rd. (Rte. 580) for about 1.5 miles (Map G, PG 167)

HISTORICAL TOUR in LĪHU‘E

Lū‘au Kalamakū

Lū‘au Kalamakū delivers an authentic Hawaiian experience and is a “mustsee” for all Kaua‘i visitors. The extravaganza held Tuesday and Friday evenings (Mondays during summer months) is performed “in-the-round,” offering great views from every seat. Before the main show, join a traditional imu ceremony. A craft fair featuring local artisans awaits on the lawn. Feast on a delicious buffet of local favorites and enjoy a mai tai from the open bar. The 45-minute main show shares the amazing story of the ancient Hawaiian legend of Kalamakū “child of the new land” and the epic voyage taken by islanders between Tahiti and Kaua‘i. Through laughter, fear and seduction a new legacy is born and culminates with a fantastic fire dream featuring fire poi balls and traditional fire knife dancing.

› PERFECT VIEWS FROM EVERY SEAT

› DELICIOUS LOCAL CUISINE + OPEN BAR

› COME EARLY TO VISIT THE ARTISAN MARKET

Lū‘au Ka Hikina

› SPECTACULAR OCEAN VIEWS

› AN AUTHENTIC CULTURAL EXPERIENCE

› MODERN TAKE ON A HAWAIIAN FEAST

You cannot leave Kaua‘i without an authentic lū‘au experience. Lū‘au Ka Hikina takes place in a newly built, open-air event pavilion, Halau Ho‘okipa, which boasts unparalleled views over the ocean. From the impressive torch lighting ceremony that kicks off the evening’s festivities along with mesmerizing hula kahiko (ancient hula) dances performed under the direction of Leilani Rivera Low, an awardwinning kumu hula (hula master). Lū‘au Ka Hikina invites you to experience a memorable evening celebrating Hawaiian and Polynesian culture—complete with a locally sourced, traditional Hawaiian feast with a modern point of view and live music.

Safari

Step into a one-of-a-kind, open-air Safari Truck to explore the beautiful 105acre Kilohana Plantation. On tour you will enjoy a Kōloa Rum tasting, sip on their signature Mai Tai, meet and interact with farm animals, and have a fresh cocktail made with fruits and herbs grown on the plantation. Stroll on a boardwalk through a tropical rainforest to taste the award-winning Kōloa Rum at the Jungle Bungalow. Now it’s time for a little safari as you ride through an animal pasture to feed a herd of pigs. At their Loi Lanai, your mixologist will whip up a farm-to-glass cocktail that will knock your socks off. We are talking about a drink made entirely from fruits and herbs grown on the plantation.

› GET UP CLOSE WITH NATURE

› SIP A MAI TAI IN THE JUNGLE!

› A UNIQUE EXPERIENCE AT KILOHANA

Kauai Safaris

(808) 652-4707 • KauaiSafaris.com

3-2087 Kaumuali‘i Hwy, Līhu‘e (Map H, PG 168)

Tahiti Nui Lū‘au

› TUESDAY & WEDNESDAY EVENINGS

› 6PM CHECK-IN

› RESERVATIONS REQUIRED

The Tahiti Nui’s lū‘au experience captures the essence of Hanalei with their tribute to the legendary Aunty Louise. Located in the heart of Hanalei on the north shore of Kaua‘i, the Tahiti Nui Lū‘au has kept the pulse of Hawaiian music alive and thriving on Kaua‘i since 1963. Celebrate the “Best of Hanalei” lū‘au every Tuesday and Wednesday featuring the food, songs and dances that have made the Tahiti Nui a home away from home. Sit back and relax in an intimate setting as you experience a unique and authentic Polynesian cultural exploration that includes an imu ceremony, Mai Tai hour, an all-you-can eat traditional Hawaiian lū‘au buffet, an amazing show with dances from across the Pacific and even Samoan style fire dancing.

Kaua‘i Ocean Discovery Center

Affiliated with the NOAA Office of National Marine Sanctuaries and National Marine Sanctuary Foundation, the Kaua‘i Ocean Discovery at Kukui Grove Shopping Center in Līhu‘e shares the tradition and knowledge of our ocean connections and inspires stewardship. Learn about humpback whales (koholā), Hawaiian monk seals, sea turtles (honu), albatrosses and more. Take a tour of the extensive Hawaiian archipelago, including Hawaiian Islands Humpback Whale National Marine Sanctuary and Papahānaumokuākea Marine National Monument. Visit an underwater world through videos, interactive displays and hands-on activities. Hear the Hawaiian creation chant, Kumulipo, and see an original mural inspired by it. Nearby in the shopping center, a Keiki Corner provides ocean-themed fun for the little ones. Rotational exhibits feature community and student projects. The facility is free and open to the public.

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Sunset Golf Cart Tour

The Sunset Golf Cart Tour at Princeville Makai Golf Club is one of the most enjoyable, educational and truly stunning activities on the North Shore. The tour is a guided golf cart tour of the golf course, flora and fauna that make up the North Shore of Kaua‘i—intertwined with both cultural and geographical educational elements that will give you a greater understanding for the ‘aina (land) and the moana (ocean). Best of all, the final stop on the tour is truly one of the most stunning locations in the world to witness a sunset—the signature par-3, seventh hole on the Princeville Makai Course that makes for the perfect viewing spot and photographable moment.

Princeville Makai Golf Course (808) 826-1912 • MakaiGolf.com/SunsetCartTour 4080

Hōkūala Golf Adventures

Hōkūala Golf Adventures, hosted by PGA Professionals, transcends the destination golf school. Enrich your connection to the Aloha Spirit through golf and excursions. This trendsetting golf academy offers many on-course golf experiences and golfer development programs. Join weekly scrambles that will help scale your new skills and cultivate new friendships. Golf may be in the name, but these adventures are far more encompassing than a four-letter word—and a lot more fun. Uncover and deepen your appreciation for the island and culture. Awaken your Aloha Spirit with The Sunrise Hui Aloha tour. Enjoy a serene stroll to the farm, then enjoy its bounty of fresh island cuisine and signature cocktails. Begin your journey to a deeper enjoyment of golf and the Kaua‘i lifestyle.

GOLF INSTRUCTION & FARM TOUR in LĪHU‘E

› A NEW TAKE ON GOLF INSTRUCTION

› GAIN A NEW APPRECIATION FOR THE ISLAND

› FARM-FRESH CUISINE & LIBATIONS

Ocean Course at Hōkūala

(808) 241-6000 • GolfHokuala.com

3351 Ho'Olaulea Way, Līhu‘e (Map H, PG 168)

Waimea Canyon & Kōke‘e Adventure

Journey through the heart of Kaua‘i’s countryside and ascend a meandering road engulfed by trees to reveal what Mark Twain aptly described as the “Grand Canyon of the Pacific.” Marvel at the immense cliffs and deep gorges of the Waimea Canyon. Watch ocean waves propel water through ancient lava rock at the Spouting Horn Blowhole. In a quaint town view Hanapēpē Valley from the lookout. Venture down a nature trail in Kōke‘e State Park for an easy trek amidst native Hawaiian flora and fauna. Listen for the lyrical chirping of the rare red ‘apapane or ‘i‘iwi bird species who sip nectar from the blossoms. Stroll the orchards at the Kauai Coffee Plantation along the coast while relaxing in the warm Hawaiian sun before returning to your hotel with memories that’ll last long after your vacation.

Kīlauea Lighthouse

Known today as the Daniel K. Inouye Kīlauea Point Lighthouse, this impressive 52-foot structure is situated on a rocky peninsula 180-feet above the Pacific Ocean. A National Historic Landmark, this lighthouse had the largest clamshell lens of any lighthouse in the world and served as a beacon since it was built in 1913 to guide passing sea and air traffic. The light was replaced in the 1970s with a lowmaintenance light beacon. You can walk into the lighthouse but not the lantern room. The Kīlauea Point National Wildlife Refuge is open Thursday - Saturday from 10am - 4pm. Check for current tour availability and hours. Reservations are required for entry at recreation.gov.

› ONE OF HAWAI‘I'S TRUE TREASURES

› FOR NATURE LOVERS, WILDLIFE ABOUNDS

› LIGHTHOUSE RECENTLY FULLY RESTORED

Located just past Kīlauea town (808) 828-0384 • kilaueapoint.org

3580 Kīlauea Rd., Kīlauea (Map A, PG 163)

Wailua Falls

SIGHTSEEING in LĪHU‘E

› DRAMATIC, BUT VERY ACCESSIBLE

› JUST A FEW MINUTES FROM LĪHU‘E

› A VERY PHOTOGENIC SIGHT

Nicknamed the Fantasy Island waterfalls for the prominent opening scene of the falls for the hit television show, this stunning 80-foot tiered waterfall is easy to view close to the roadside lookout. It’s best to view the falls in the morning when the sun adds to the beauty of the falls, and rainbows are common from the mist.The falls can sometimes appear much taller, as determined by the amount of rainfall farther up the stream. Please do not hike to the bottom of the falls (also advised against by the county and posted signs) as this is a very slippery and dangerous path. This is a simple and quick stop with a great photograph opportunity.

Na ‘Āina Kai Botanical Gardens & Sculpture Park

BOTANICAL

Na ‘Āina Kai is a stunning botanical garden encompassing 240 acres featuring a hardwood plantation and bronze sculpture collection. Founders Ed and Joyce Doty opened the Gardens to the public in January 2000. A visit may include a walk through the Formal Gardens, a ride through the Horticultural Amusement Garden, or even an exploration of a Hawaiian Village. The monthly Splash & Play event features a wading pool, treehouse, train, slides and a gecko-shaped maze to delight the children. More than 200 bronze sculptures grace the estate and nesting Laysan albatross put on enchanting displays from November to June. Guided tours are offered on Tuesday, Wednesday and Friday. Self-guided walking tours are on Thursday mornings. The Garden is also available for private events.

› TOURS BY RESERVATION TUE-FRI

› WEAR COMFORTABLE SHOES & BRING WATER

› GIFT SHOP OPEN MON-FRI

Kalalau Valley Lookout

SIGHTSEEING on WEST SIDE

› BEST VIEWING EARLY ON A SUNNY DAY

› A SCENIC MASTERPIECE

› A SHORT WALK UP FROM THE CAR

The lookout provides panoramic views into the majestic valley—without breaking a sweat—from the 18-mile marker. It is one of the most spectacular views on earth with striking sea cliffs and the cobalt Pacific looks into the largest valley in Nāpali. Kalalau Valley is dramatic, with jagged emerald ridges, and is best viewed in the morning to avoid the clouds. Farther ahead is Pu‘u o Kila Lookout, which offers even more astonishing views of the valley and the deep blue ocean. Both lookouts are located at the end of the Kōke‘e Road.

Waimea Canyon State Park

The Grand Canyon of the Pacific is a breathtaking gaping gorge with dramatic ridges and deep ravines shaped by the steady process of erosion and collapse of the volcano that formed Kaua‘i. It is roughly 10 miles long and 3,600 feet deep. The canyon is spectacular and majestic with jewel-tone colors of reds and greens. Take the scenic but narrow drive on Waimea Canyon Drive (Rte 550) from Hwy 50, or turn up the steep Kōke‘e Road at Kekaha. The two roads merge into Kōke‘e Road after a few miles up. Waimea Canyon Lookout is between mile markers 10 and 11. Check out the spectacular vistas from scenic lookouts at Pu‘u Hinahina (3,336 feet elevation), where the private island of Ni‘ihau can be seen on clear days, and Pu‘u Ka Pele where the Waipo‘o Falls are visible after a heavy rainfall. Be prepared for cooler weather, and make sure you have some fuel in your car.

Located past Waimea town DLNR.Hawaii.gov

Hwy 50 to Hwy 550 for 6 miles to park (Map A, PG 162)

› SCENIC LOOKOUTS WITH SPECTACULAR VISTAS ON CLEAR DAYS

› ENTRANCE FEE FOR NON-RESIDENTS

Māhā‘ulepū Heritage Trail

› THE TRAIL SPANS 4-MILES ROUNDTRIP

› THE REWARD LIES AT SECLUDED MĀHĀ‘ULEPŪ BEACH

Nestled between a luxurious resort and renowned golf course, it may seem odd to find a hiking trail, well known and well traveled by many adventure enthusiasts. However the Māhā’ulepū Trail near Po‘ipū is just that—a wild and scenic stretch of coastline on Kaua‘i’s South Shore, encompassing sandy pathways and ironwood trees. This hike is a switch from the lush green mountainsides to ocean front views, sandy dunes and saltwater breezes that induce peace and serenity. The trail spans from Shipwreck Beach to Māhā’ulepū, climbing the Makawehi Bluff. Here, hikers can tiptoe to the edge of sand dunes and marvel over the aquamarine sea churning below. As hikers continue on the Māhā’ulepū Trail, the destination will be Māhā’ulepū Beach, one of the last unspoiled treasures on the South Shore.

Located near the Grand Hyatt Kauai Park near the trailhead at Shipwreck Beach (Map A, PG 162)

COURSE golf course

POIPU BAY GOLF COURSE golf course

OCEAN COURSE AT HŌKŪALA golf course

PRINCEVILLE MAKAI GOLF COURSE golf course PUAKEA GOLF COURSE golf

› CUSTOM FITTING EXPERIENCE

› THE GEN6s ARE GAME-CHANGERS

› CHECK OUT THE PXG APPAREL LINE

Let’s set the record straight: You don’t have to be a great golfer to get custom fitted for clubs. In fact, beginners often have the most to gain from playing clubs that are properly fitted. PXG Fittings are immersive, data-driven, fully personalized and totally fun, focused on maximizing your performance, whether you are a novice or a scratch golfer. Once you are fitted by a Master Fitter for the right club heads, shafts, loft, lie and grips to suit your specs, these are the benefits can you expect from a PXG Fitting: Increased confidence on every shot from tee to green; longer distance and improved trajectory off the tee box; greater accuracy and consistency, even on mishits; improved short game on and around the green; and more enjoyment of the game!

Schedule your PXG club fitting now at PXG.com or by calling 844.PLAY.PXG.

(844) 752-9794 • PXG.com

Fittings at: Poipu Bay Golf Course (Map B, PG 164)

Princeville Makai Golf Club (Map I, PG 169) Puakea Golf Course (Map H, PG 168)

Kiahuna Golf Course

› A SKILLFUL RTJ, JR. DESIGN

› ENJOY WILDLIFE SIGHTINGS

› TIGHT FAIRWAYS & PASPALUM GREENS

Experience pure Kaua‘i golf at half the price. Kiahuna Golf Club offers challenging resort golf within a fascinating area of ancient Polynesian archeology. Touted as the best greens on the island, enjoy your game surrounded by the lush, natural beauty of sunny Po‘ipū Beach. World renowned architect, Robert Trent Jones II, skillfully included many ancient remnants of an authentic Hawaiian village into his design, where you will experience the course’s beauty and a sense of the enduring history of Kaua‘i and the Hawaiian culture. The Kiahuna Golf Club is a sanctuary for many of Kaua‘i’s endangered species including the state bird of Hawaii, the nēnē, the rare Hawaiian Stilt and the very shy Moorhen. Take in the views of the golf course or watch daily sports while you dine at the onsite location for Paco’s Tacos Cantina.

Poipu Bay Golf Course

Adjacent to the Grand Hyatt Kauai Resort and Spa on the sunny south shore of Kaua‘i, this outstanding course is backed by lush emerald mountains and sculpted from a rolling plateau eight stories above the Pacific Ocean. Nestled among the gentle contours of Po‘ipū Bay you’ll discover the remains of Hawaiian heiau (places of worship) and ancient stone walls. If this weren’t challenge enough, Mother Nature presents you with one distraction after another. From rare Hawaiian monk seals, green sea turtles and humpback whales, you’ll have lots of wild excuses to back your scorecard. Plus, Po‘ipū Bay is home to nēnē (Hawaiian goose) which are endemic to Hawai‘i, and not encountered anywhere else in the world outside of their native environment. Here, even the most focused golfer will be challenged by the breathtaking views.

(808) 742-8711

• PoipuBayGolf.com

2250 Ainako St., Po‘ipū (Map B, PG 164)

› AN OCEANFRONT CHAMPIONSHIP COURSE

› A ROBERT TRENT JONES, JR. DESIGN

› HOSTED PGA GRAND SLAM FROM '94-'06

Ocean Course at Hōkūala

The Ocean Course at Hōkūala, a Timbers Kaua‘i Resort, is the only Signature Jack Nicklaus designed golf course on Kaua‘i. While boasting the longest continuous stretch of ocean front golf holes in Hawai‘i, Hōkūala’s true beauty lies in their signature Aloha Spirit shared throughout the property. Elevate your golf game while enjoying a great Hawai‘i experience with the Hōkūala Golf Adventures team. After one visit to the Ocean Course, each guest will leave with a memory that this is truly where aloha begins.

Princeville Makai Golf Club

As Mr. Robert Trent Jones Jr.'s first ever solo design, Princeville Makai Golf Course is truly one of the world's most stunning golf and resort locations. Since undergoing an extensive $6 million renovation, the Makai Course has soared to the top of almost all of golf's respected rankings imaginable—including being ranked amongst the Top 100 Greatest Public Golf Courses in America by Golf Digest, within the Top 3 Best Courses You Can Play in Hawai‘i by GolfWeek and being named to the list of America's "Top 5 Great Golf Settings" in the world by National Geographic Traveler. With immaculate course conditions and six oceanfront holes, it is impossible for any other golf course on the Hawaiian Islands to rival Princeville Makai's true Hawaiian golf adventure!

› A STUNNING RTJ, JR. DESIGN

› PRISTINE COURSE CONDITIONS

› SIX OF THE HOLES ARE OCEANFRONT

(808) 826-1912 • MakaiGolf.com

4080 Lei O Papa Road, Princeville (Map I, PG 169)

Puakea Golf Course

› AMAZING LANDSCAPES & VIEWS

› BE SURE TO GRAB A PRE- OR POSTROUND BITE AT PUAKEA GRILL

Designed by architect Robin Nelson, Puakea Golf Course a public, daily-fee golf course built on more than 200 acres of historic property which was once home to a sugar cane plantation. Sports Illustrated stated that the course “is too spectacular to keep off our list … dramatic in the extreme, the course offers fabulous views of the Pacific and is built amid volcanic cliffs, massive ravines, giant sinkholes and lush tropical undergrowth.” The 18-hole, par 72 layout offers a variety of looks for golfers of all skill levels, with rolling mounds, strategic bunkering, water features and a spread of foliage that shape its 6,954 yards. Puakea also has a spacious practice facility with six target greens on their all-grass driving range, including a picturesque backdrop of the Wai‘ale‘ale Mountain Range.

BEACHES

KEKAHA BEACH PARK west side

SALT POND BEACH PARK west side

SHIPWRECK (KEONELOA) BEACH south shore

KALAPAKĪ BEACH līhu‘e

LYDGATE BEACH PARK east side

PO‘IPŪ BEACH south shore

‘ANINI BEACH north shore

MAKUA (TUNNELS) BEACH

PRO TIP A complete beach guide, along with geolocation is available in the Savvy360 app.

Please wear reef-safe sunscreen. Respect the ocean and sea life. Leave these beautiful places better than you found them.

Kekaha Beach Park

Salt Pond Beach Park

This beach park is located on the west side of Kaua‘i facing south / southwest and typically has the calmest ocean access and gorgeous views including distant views of Ni‘ihau and Lihoa islands. If you are looking for more seclusion and less hustle and bustle, this park is rarely crowded, and offers a refreshing change from the more popular beaches located near resorts. Beachcomb, stroll or sunbathe on the beach while watching the fishermen and surfers. If you don’t mind a more crowded area of Kekaha Beach, make your way to the southern end to watch surfers riding a break at Davidson Point. There is a lifeguard on duty daily from 9 a.m.5 p.m., and basic amenities such as picnic tables and pavilions, restrooms, roadside parking and showers are available.

The protected reef in this pretty crescent shaped beach with lots of palms is great for swimming, snorkeling and beachcombing. Snorkeling is a popular activity here, with an abundance of colorful reef fish, coral, sponges and you may even spot a honu (green sea turtle). Swimming is usually safe year-round in the large lagoon and the sunsets are spectacular. Salt ponds are nearby where generations past made salt by evaporating seawater in red earthen pans and still do today. Please do not enter the salt-making area. Respectfully observe from a distance. The beach is also great for windsurfing, boogie boarding and exploring the tidepools. There is a lifeguard on duty; and amenities include picnic tables, pavilions, grills, camping, restrooms and showers.

BEACH on WEST SIDE

BEACH on WEST SIDE

Located near Hanapēpē

Left off Hwy 50 onto Lele Rd., right on Lokokai Rd. to park (Map D, PG 165)

Located near Waimea Hwy 50 West between MM 24/25 (Map A, PG 162)

Shipwreck (Keoneloa) Beach

Located on the South Shore in the Po‘ipū area in front of the Grand Hyatt Kaua‘i Resort & Spa, Shipwreck Beach is perfect for sunbathing, long walks and wading, but not a good swimming beach due to dangerous ocean conditions. But it’s a good beach for boogie boarding, surfing and windsurfing for the experienced. Named for an old and badly damaged small wooden boat on the water’s edge that has long disappeared, this beach has become very popular with brave thrill seekers jumping 40 feet into the sea from Makawehi Point’s cliffs, as did Harrison Ford and Anne Heche from Six Days, Seven Nights. There is no lifeguard on duty, so be cautious before entering the water. Showers and restrooms are available. Take the public access road between the Grand Hyatt and the Po‘ipū Bay Golf Course.

Located fronting the Grand Hyatt Kaua‘i Resort & Spa Ainako St., Po‘ipū (Map B, PG 164)

› NO LIFEGUARD ON DUTY

› SHOWERS & FACILITIES AVAILABLE

› SURF CAN BE DANGEROUS, BE SMART

Kalapakī Beach

Lydgate Beach Park

BEACH on EAST SIDE

This is a beautiful, white sand, crescent-shaped beach with tranquil water and a great place to learn to surf on the offshore break with great views of Nawiliwili Bay and the Hoary Head Mountains. It’s a favorite place to swim when conditions are calm, which is most of the time, but beware of strong rip currents during high surf. There isn’t a posted lifeguard, so be aware of water and weather conditions before swimming. If you are looking for some water activities for the family, there are surf lessons and catamaran cruises, as well as water sports rentals nearby. Close to the airport, hotels and cruise port, Kalapaki is conveniently located off Rice St. west of Līhu‘e in front of the Royal Sonesta Kauai Resort. There are no set hours or entrance fees. Park in the public parking lot at the hotel.

Located at Royal Sonesta Kauai Resort

3610 Rice St., Līhu‘e (Map H, PG 168)

Lydgate Beach is a scenic family beach that is very popular since it offers something for everyone including a park. Considered to be one of the safest places on the island for snorkeling, there are two large rock-enclosed pools great for children and offers safe swimming and snorkeling for beginners. There is a large lavarock wall that protects swimmers year-round, and the ironwood groves provide shade. Kamalani playground has a wooden volcano and jungle gym, and bright ceramic sea creatures adorn the playground. Amenities include picnic pavilions, grills, showers and restrooms, and there is a lifeguard on duty. If you are looking for land activity, stroll along the 2.5-mile paved coastal path.

Located past Hanalei on Kuhio Hwy

Take one of two dirt roads near 8-mile marker (Map A, PG 162)

BEACH in LĪHU‘E

Po‘ipū Beach Park

Named America's Best Beach by The Travel Channel, Po‘ipū Beach is popular because of the sunny weather and calm water that surrounds the chain of beautiful wide, white sandy beaches. Probably the most popular beach on Kaua‘i’s South Shore, Po‘ipū has something to offer for everyone: snorkeling, swimming, surfing or leisurely walks along the beach. An offshore reef causes the waves to break before they reach the shore making it a keiki-friendly beach. Swimming and snorkeling are great between the offshore reef and the coast while the breaking waves outside the calm waters create surfing and boogie boarding opportunities. Dangerous water conditions can occur during periods of high surf, usually in winter. Beginning surf lessons are available as well as a nearby playground. Lifeguards, showers, picnic tables, charcoal grill pits, pavilions and restrooms are also available.

Located off Po‘ipū Rd., south of Ho‘owili Rd. Ho‘one Rd., Po‘ipū (Map B, PG 164)

› LIFEGUARD ON DUTY

› A TOP NATIONALLY-RANKED BEACH FOR A REASON

‘Anini Beach

BEACH on NORTH SHORE

Mākua (Tunnels) Beach

BEACH on NORTH SHORE

This beautiful, tranquil white sand beach has one of the largest coral reefs in Hawai‘i and has ideal safe water conditions for snorkeling, windsurfing, swimming and paddle boarding. Although there is no lifeguard posted on ‘Anini Beach, it is still considered one of the safer beaches on Kaua‘i’s North Shore due to the huge reef that offers protection even in large surf. Because this beach is a popular place for permitted camping and picnicking, there are plenty of picnic tables, grills, pavilions, and shade trees, as well as creature comforts such as restrooms and showers. ‘Anini Beach is usually less crowded than other North Shore beaches and easy to find.

Located near Waimea Hwy 50 West between MM 24/25 (Map A, PG 162)

This is one of the best snorkeling beaches on the North Shore due to the wide-fringing coral reef (so large it can be seen from space) with a huge variety of fish swimming around in the shallow inner and outer reefs. The exceptional beach is surrounded by gently sloping sand and is well protected with incredible mountain scenery popular with swimmers, surfers, windsurfers and beachcombers. The best snorkeling is in the center by the crescent shaped reef. Scuba divers can explore the underwater caverns near the shore. Beware of sharp reefs, rip currents and dangerous water conditions. There are no facilities at this beach, but the facilities at Hā‘ena State Park are nearby, and there is a lifeguard on duty. Take one of two dirt roads off Kuhio Hwy / Route 560 north of Hanalei near the 8-mile marker.

Located past Hanalei on Kuhio Hwy

Take one of two dirt roads near 8-mile marker (Map A, PG 162)

Located

Shore of Kaua‘i and set between two rivers—Hanalei River to the east and Wai‘oli River to the west—Hanalei Bay is probably one of the most majestic places on earth. The sunsets are spectacular and the moonlight over Hanalei Bay is magical. There are four beaches included in the two-mile sandy crescent shaped bay, and all have lifeguards on duty except Waikoko Beach. Black Pot Park is located next to the Hanalei River mouth and is a local gathering place with a variety of water activities. The Hanalei Pavilion Beach Park is a popular spot for picnics. Wai‘oli Beach Park is near the center of the bay, set in an ironwood grove. Waikoko Beach is located on the westernmost section, and is protected by Waikoko Reef, so it’s popular with snorkelers and families. Picnic area, tables, pavilions, grills, showers and restrooms are available.

› ONE OF THE MOST PICTURESQUE, MAJESTIC PLACES ON EARTH

› GREAT BEACH FOR WATER ACTIVITIES

on the North

G O GRAND

STEVENSON’S LIBRARY AT GRAND HYATT KAUAI

Craving sushi? The south shore’s best sushi spot serves up vast views, crafted cocktails, and scrumptious sushi. Sip inventive cocktails, martinis, tropical drinks, local beers, aged whiskies, cognacs and ports. Savor all the sushi favorites plus Chef’s signature rolls.

Sushi rolled nightly 5:30-10:00pm. Bar open until 11:00pm.

Free valet parking for diners. For reservations book on OpenTable or call 808 240 6456 .

EAT + DRINK

EATING HOUSE 1849 hawaiian & asian fusion cuisine

STEVENSON'S LIBRARY sushi & spirits

TIDEPOOLS regional cuisine

THE CABANA BAR & GRILL american & asian fusion cuisine

TABLE AT POIPU hawaiian & pan asian cuisine

ROB'S GOOD TIMES GRILL sports bar & grill

HUALANI'S farm to table cuisine

THE PLANTATION HOUSE BY GAYLORD'S regional cuisine

MOAMOA HAWAIIAN FISH HOUSE island-inspired cuisine

FIRE HEN chicken & hot wings

THE CROOKED SURF island-inspired

RED SALT regional cuisine

TAHITI NUI island style cuisine

MARIACHI'S AUTHENTIC MEXICAN CUISINE mexican cuisine

BANGKOK HAPPY

Eating House 1849 by Roy Yamaguchi

Embark on a culinary adventure at award-winning Chef Roy Yamaguchi’s creation, offering the perfect opportunity to savor the multicultural flavors of Hawai‘i. The celebrated chef famous for international cuisine honors the many different cultures that have made Hawai‘i the “melting pot” that it is, and incorporates Portuguese, Filipino and American seasonings, among others, in cravable spicy and savory dishes served in a plantation-style eatery. Paying homage to Hawai‘i’s vibrant culinary heritage, with a nod to restaurateurs like Peter Fernandez who, the story goes, opened one of the first restaurants in Hawai‘i—called the Eating House—back in the mid-1800s, using what was available from local farmers, ranchers, foragers and fishermen. It’s here that the easy ambiance and simple flavors of a plantation town meet the dynamic modernity of haute cuisine.

Stevenson's Library

› EXPANSIVE BAR, VIEWS AND OPEN-AIR LANAI CREATE A WELCOMING VIBE

This unique Kaua‘i bar boasts the freshest and most delicious sushi and cocktails from sake to Scotch, draft beer to creative martinis and delectable tropical drinks. Savor the delectable flavor combinations, or simply enjoy a cocktail while taking in the sweeping views. The warm woods and intimate seating areas of this classic lounge create a welcoming atmosphere. Scrumptious sushi rolls are sure to please, with sushi served nightly from 5:30 p.m. - 10 p.m. Bar closes at 11 p.m. Book on OpenTable. Free valet parking for diners.

SUSHI & COCKTAILS on SOUTH SHORE

› THE PLACE FOR SUSHI + SPIRITS

Dine Hawaiian-style in what has been recognized as the island’s most romantic restaurant. For the ultimate ambiance and delectable food, Tidepools is the place. Dine in thatched-roof bungalows that seemingly float above a koi filled lagoon at the base of a waterfall. Savor fresh island flavors in this extraordinary setting. You’ll relish the exceptional service and the fresh local fish and steak creations each prepared with bounty from the island. Tidepools will dazzle you with dishes like Grilled Hawaiian Catch, Macadamia Crusted Mahi or succulent steaks. Salads feature greens from their own garden and the desserts are luscious. Don’t miss this treat. Book on OpenTable or call for reservations. Free valet parking for diners.

› ISLAND-INSPIRED MENU

› TRANQUIL, ROMANTIC SETTING

› FRESH LOCAL INGREDIENTS

The Cabana Bar & Grill

› SHADED TERRACE

› LIVE MUSIC FRIDAY-SUNDAY

› CASUAL FAMILY DINING

Welcome to the Cabana Bar & Grill—the hidden gem on the sunny South Shore. The menu offers a fusion of local, colorful items like the 12-hour, slow roasted Kalua Pork, Local Braddha Dave's Vegetarian Taro Burger, beautiful Kaua‘i grown salads, wild caught ahi tacos and creative cocktails and mocktails. The Cabana is located inside the Poipu Beach Athletic Club and is OPEN to the public. Enjoy local live music under the covered lanai and happy hour every day from 3 p.m. to 5 p.m. Book your special events and experience true aloha from their amazing team. Walk-ins welcome or make reservations on Yelp. Order pick up on ChowNow and stay up to date by following them on Instagram @thecabanakauai. Located

Table at Poipu

HAWAIIAN & PAN-ASIAN CUISINE on SOUTH SHORE

Looking for the perfect spot for a dress-up dining experience? Chef and owner John-Paul Gordon, a multiple-award-winning chef over 24 years, shares some of his favorite recipes with a noteworthy assemblage of what he does best—keeping the menu fresh while serving up classics. Feast on the fruits of the sea with flavorpacked dishes like Kaua‘i Prawn Saffron Risotto and the Seafood Paella; or dig into traditional meat dishes like the Bone-in Pork Chop and 14 oz. Spiced Ribeye. There are even vegetarian options, and all dishes are cooked up with imagination. Chef John-Paul uses locally-sourced ingredients in partnership with Kaua‘i farmers and fishermen to cook up meals that are served simply and filled with warmth and aloha.

› SAVE ROOM FOR OUTSTANDING DESSERTS

› CLASSIC DISHES WITH INSPIRATION

› RESERVATIONS RECOMMENDED

Rob's Good Times Grill

›

›

Located in downtown Līhu‘e for over thirty years, Rob's Good Times Grill is one of those places locals and visitors alike return to time and time again. With its lively sports pub ambiance, live music and locally-sourced ingredients that inspire their menu, it’s the perfect spot to wrap up your day after sightseeing or hanging out at the beach. Imbibe on handcrafted cocktails with freshly squeezed juices, wines and a large selection of craft and local beers at their full-service bar. Dine on creative casual comfort dishes, from sandwiches and burgers to bowls, salads and pupus. Whether you’re alone, with friends or family, they try hard to make you feel like family. Enjoy live music every Wednesday, Friday and Saturday from 4 p.m. to 10 p.m. Open daily for lunch and dinner, with happy hour served daily from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. Live music Wednesday-Saturday and open for breakfast during football season.

Oceanfront dining at Hualani’s is influenced by the seasons. What’s fresh at The Farm at Hōkūala inspires the farm-to-table menu, while the bar serves up well-balanced craft cocktails that complement the seasonality of the kitchen. Experience one of the best views on Kaua‘i and savor the island lifestyle from an elegant yet relaxed setting at the beautiful Hōkūala resort, just minutes from the airport. In addition to repeated honors of OpenTable's Diners' Choice awards for Kaua‘i Best Overall, Best Food, Best Ambiance, Best Service, Hawai‘i Regional Cuisine and more–Hualani's is also proud to partner with Surfrider Foundation as an Ocean Friendly Restaurant. Open daily; reservations recommended.

› INNOVATIVE, HYPER-SEASONAL FARE

› MINUTES FROM LĪHU‘E AIRPORT

› COMPLIMENTARY VALET PARKING ONLY

Located in Hōkūala Resort at Timbers Kaua‘i (808) 320-7399 • TimbersKauai.com/Hualanis

The Plantation House by Gaylord's

› LOCALLY-SOURCED INGREDIENTS

› PLANTATION-LIKE SETTING AT KILOHANA

› PLENTY TO EXPERIENCE AFTER YOUR MEAL

Located in Kilohana’s original courtyard, The Plantation House by Gaylord's offers Kaua‘i’s most authentic dining experience with island-influenced dishes by Chef Johnny Saguid. An original working plantation homestead, Kilohana was home to Gaylord Wilcox who operated Grove Farm Plantation, a 23,000acre Sugar Plantation. Today, The Plantation House offers one of Kaua‘i's most beautiful settings for lunch and dinner. The kitchen uses only the freshest, seasonal ingredients supporting local farmers and fishermen, and their 67-acre sustainable farm provides much of the produce and herbs used in their dishes and cocktails. After your meal take a walk around the Kilohana grounds, shop in their assorted boutiques, visit the rum shop, take a ride on the plantation train or Safari van. Open Monday through Saturday for lunch and dinner.

Moamoa Hawaiian Fish House

Open-air dining while in Hawai‘i is as essential as the tropical, pineapple wedge-topped cocktail at Saturday night’s meal—and it just so happens that Moamoa Hawaiian Fish House at the Sheraton Kaua‘i Coconut Beach Resort offers both. Along with the lovely sips and sites this beachfront restaurant has to offer, the inspired array of Hawaiian cuisine offers well-earned competition for your attention. Miles more curated than your run-of-the-mill resort eatery, Moamoa dreamed up a Hawaiian Caprese equipped with Kauai Heirloom tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, local mango, sweet basil, extra virgin olive oil and aged balsamic vinaigrette. Other standouts include a Cioppino with mussels, clams, lobster tail, Pernod liquor and saffron, though don't forget to start things out with the Grilled Octopus or the Char Sui Pork Belly. Expect the Pelagic Fish Special to be cooked to perfection with locally farmed vegetables and burnt lemon, while the Tropical Panna Cotta rounds out a memorable meal.

› FRESH, SEAFOOD-INSPIRED MENU

› TRY THE DAILY CATCH

› OPEN-AIR DINING ON THE COAST

Fire Hen Arcade & Wings

› IT'S ALL ABOUT THE SAUCE!

› ARCADE & BILLIARDS

› AMAZING FRIED CHICKEN & WINGS

Marinated for hours, tenderly breaded and crisped to golden brown in a warm vat of bubbly oil? Fried chicken is an icon of global cuisine with different cultures and cities welcomely taking the liberty to throw in their own innovative adaptations. On the eastern shore of Kaua‘i, Fire Hen is doing just that with an emphasis on the sauce. Many would argue that when it comes to French fries, fried chicken or anything of the dippable sort, we place 10% of our eating desire on the food and 90% on the sauce— and while Fire Hen’s chicken delivers moist meat with a crackly exterior, it’s their selection of sauces and flavorings that gets you hooked. Guava Habanero, Pineapple Jerk and Mango Lime Habanero make for bold flavors crispy layers are eager to soak up. Also be sure to check out their selection of bowls with sauced-up tenders, rice and veggies. Arcade open to Fire Hen patrons and resort guests.

The Crooked Surf

The Crooked Surf is a sophisticated Tiki Bar experience, inspired from indigenous Hawaiian architecture and features al fresco drinks and food with an understated surf club vibe. The bar overlooks the sweeping vistas of the ocean surrounding this beautiful resort. It features live entertainment in the evening on weekends and a fun, high-energy vibe that will keep your good times going into the night. The menu focuses on island-favorite pupus, Asian-fusion sandwiches and burgers and approachable local plates that are both refreshing and nourishing. Sip a Coconut Beach Mai Tai and indulge in a fresh catch poke bowl or a host of resort favorites and a rotation of specials that highlight the seasonality and culture of Kaua‘i. Enjoy happy hour and live local artists performing kanikapila (live music) daily.

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Red Salt

› FRESH, LOCALLY-SOURCED SEAFOOD

› DON'T SLEEP ON THE RED SALT BURGER

› SUSHI BAR ON SELECT NIGHTS

Take in the sweeping palm tree-lined ocean views and enjoy modern island cuisine and native flavors at this award-winning signature restaurant at Ko‘a Kea. Here, executive chef and Kaua‘i native Noelani Planas celebrates fresh locally-sourced Hawaiian seafood and produce. Enjoy modern cuisine with dishes like Vanilla Bean-Seared Mahi, Ahi Tartare, and the decadently layered Red Salt burger. Here, guests will experience a casual, yet sophisticated Po‘ipū fine dining atmosphere. During morning hours, Red Salt offers tropical takes on traditional breakfast dishes such as lobster benedict and lemon-pineapple soufflé pancakes. On select nights in Red Salt Lounge, experience a sushi bar with specialty cocktails, unique rolls, and spectacular sushi and sashimi fare as Red Salt’s sushi chef skillfully translates Japanese flavors for the American palate—all with a Hawaiian twist.

If you’re looking for fresh ‘onolicious food, live local music and a friendly, relaxed atmosphere, Tahiti Nui in the heart of Hanalei will welcome you with open arms. Since opening in May 1963, Tahiti Nui has been a gathering place for people to relax, play music together and talk story, and continues to serve and entertain patrons with the same casual, romantic vibe found only in Hanalei. Tahiti Nui has some of the most unique and famous drinks on the island and is also home to the Tiki Man Pizza where the Huli Chicken and Kalua Pork pizzas rule. Thin crust is their specialty and brushed in a secret garlic butter. Other menu items include fresh, locally caught fish, specialty burgers and scrumptious salads. Sunday Brunch features local favorites like Loco Moco and Kale Mushroom Benedict. Make sure to catch one of the many impromptu performances by local musicians every night for dinner and afternoon happy hour.

Mariachi's Mexican Cuisine

Experience authentic Mexican cuisine from a simple menu of flavorful comfort food homemade with fresh ingredients inspired by family recipes from Mexico and the passion for cooking of owner Hector Portillo's grandmother. The combination of flavors and the traditional Mexican ambiance is what makes Mariachi’s a very special restaurant. If you’re hungry for non-Mexican dishes, their menu has plenty of American and local Hawaiian favorites, as well as vegetarian options. They offer a margarita bar, with an extensive selection of tropical cocktails, tequilas and beers, including local options. Whether it's your first time at Mariachi’s, or you're a regular, they always strive to provide the best, traditional Mexican cantina experience.

Bangkok Happy Bowl Asian Bistro & Sushi Bar

A cornerstone in the Po‘ipū community, this colorful, laid-back bistro serves up authentic Thai cuisine with a sophisticated, modern twist on classic dishes and has been recognized for its outstanding food, excellent service and friendly staff. Owned by award-winning chef and restaurateur Paula Rungsawang-Coult with husband Kirk Coult, this popular Po‘ipū establishment features flavorful dishes made with fresh ingredients—including classic Thai favorites such as curries, and noodle and rice bowls. Don't miss out on their sushi menu, which offers a variety of creative sushi rolls and fresh sashimi. Dine on their lānai and enjoy specialty cocktails from the full-service bar while enjoying the nightly live music. Stop in for their daily happy hour from 3:00 p.m. to 5:30 p.m., with live music nightly from 6:30 p.m. to 9 p.m. Winner of the 2023 Kauai Diner’s Choice Award.

SHOP + STYLE

THE SHOPS AT GRAND HYATT KAUAI shopping

MAUI

The Shops at Grand Hyatt Kauai

› EXPERIENCE A CURATED MIX OF ISLAND

STYLE AND PREMIER BRANDS

› SHOP, SPA & DINE AT THE GRAND HYATT

Everything Kaua‘i in one beautiful space. The Shops at Grand Hyatt Kauai features 12,000 square feet of retail shops, featuring Tori Richard aloha wear, Na Hoku fine jewelry, Shoe Envy, Anara Spa boutique, Waterwear, Sunglass Hut, Hawai‘i’s own Martin and MacArthur fine woodworking, fine art photography from aFeinberg Gallery and gifts and sundries from Accents. Within walking distance of the resort, the Poipu Bay Golf Shop offers golf equipment, accessories and logo wear. Whether you are looking for the perfect gift or a keepsake to treasure, you will find it all at The Shops at Grand Hyatt Kauai.

The Shops at Kukui‘ula

› EXPANSIVE, OPEN-AIR SETTING

› SIGNATURE RESTAURANTS & QUICK BITES

› LOCAL SHOPS, GALLERIES & BOUTIQUES

On the sunny south shore of Kaua‘i, nestled in the renowned resort playground of Po‘ipu, The Shops at Kukui‘ula is the island's premier shopping, dining and fine art destination. Showcasing architecture that pays homage to Hawai‘i's plantation past, the center is home to dozens of unique shops and boutiques, award-winning restaurants and contemporary art galleries. Strolling through The Shops at Kukui‘ula stimulates the senses, especially on Friday evenings when live music carries on the breeze; and hosts to some of the South Shore’s most cherished weekly, monthly and annual events. Every Wednesday beginning at 3:30pm, The Shops come alive with the lively Kaua‘i Culinary Market, offering fresh fruits and vegetables as well as other specialties and local favorites that are all Kaua‘i grown and made, supporting local farmers, producers and vendors.

Live the aloha lifestyle in tropical resort wear from Blue Ginger. Perfect for any island occasion, Blue Ginger offers colorful, timeless resort wear sure to bring smiles and warm memories of the islands. Original batik prints inspired by the beauty of the Hawaiian Islands are available in comfortable clothing for all ages. A family run establishment, Blue Ginger has long been an island favorite with kama‘āina and visitors alike. With eight locations throughout the Hawaiian Islands, Blue Ginger has something for everyone, from the youngest keiki on up. Colorful sundresses, caftans, aloha shirts, accessories and more. Celebrating 39 years of living the aloha lifestyle, these exclusive prints and fashions continue to delight multiple generations.

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› MATCHING FAMILY PRINTS

› TIMELESS RESORTWEAR

Located in the Shops at Kukui‘ula (808) 742-2633 • BlueGinger.com 2829 Ala Kalanikaumaka St., Suite G145, Kōloa (Map B, PG 164)

Maui Divers Jewelry

› EXCLUSIVELY MADE IN HAWAI‘I

› FOREVER GUARANTEE (WARRANTY)

› PEARLS, GEMS & DIAMONDS

Embark on an enchanting journey of everlasting memories with Maui Divers Jewelry. Impeccable artistry and genuine passion breathe life into their iconic Hawaiian jewelry. Backed by superior craftsmanship, expert design and unparalleled customer service, your story finds its home in every locally made design. Since 1959, each piece has included the valuable protection of their famous Forever Guarantee. It's a testament to their unwavering customer commitment and outstanding quality. Visit Maui Divers Jewelry on O‘ahu, Maui, Big Island, Kaua‘i and at MauiDivers.com. Unforgettable memories await.

Na Hoku

The essence of Hawaiian lifestyle and tradition has been captured in the Na Hoku collection of fine jewelry. Hawaiian for “stars,” Na Hoku also stands for incomparable quality and craftsmanship. At Na Hoku, you will find original pieces set with Tahitian pearls, diamonds and colored gemstones, as well as collections by renowned designers such as Kabana®, Le Vian® and Effy®. Every piece of Hawaiian and Island lifestyle jewelry is designed to accent the individuality, taste and style of the one who wears it, and will forever be a memento of a treasured time in the islands.

NaHoku.com

(808) 742-1863

• Grand Hyatt Shops (Map B, PG 164) (808) 742-7025

Monday Pau Hana Farmers Market

• Poipu Shopping Village (Map B, PG 164)

FARMERS MARKET in LĪHU‘E

Voted the #1 Kaua‘i farmers' market, the Monday Pau Hana Farmers Market is a partnership between Kaua‘i County Farm Bureau and Kukui Grove Center with the goal of supporting local agriculture. Held each Monday, rain or shine, from 3 p.m. - 5:30 p.m. in the south parking lot, this outdoor market offers seasonal fruit, flowers and produce plus ready-to-eat items. Enjoy a fresh cracked coconut, savor a fresh made lumpia or Filipino delicacy or sample Kaua‘i honey while shopping for what’s in season and meeting Kaua‘i farmers. More local choices are available at the Food Court restaurants, many of which shop from these same farmers.

JEWELRY on SOUTH SHORE

Kukui Grove Center

Nestled on 50 acres in Li‘hūe, Kukui Grove Center and Marketplace is the island's largest open-air shopping center. A dynamic mix of more than 60 stores, restaurants, local specialty shops, services and activities amidst outdoor seating and lush tropical landscaping, Kukui Grove is known as “The Place to Be” for Hawai‘i residents and visitors seeking to explore authentic Kaua‘i eats and style. Stop by for breakfast or lunch at Kaua‘i’s top food court featuring the diverse flavors of the islands, or come on Aloha Friday entertainment from 11 a.m. - 1 p.m. and 6:30 p.m. - 8 p.m. The Center is a community hub for seasonal and cultural programming for all ages, with popular weekend events and a Monday Pau Hana Farmers' Market starting at 3 p.m. weekly. The Keiki Korner children’s play area and frequent kids’ activities make Kukui Grove a favorite stop for families.

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Kaua‘i Culinary Market

› HIT THE MARKET AND STAY FOR DINNER

FARMERS MARKET on SOUTH SHORE Located

Held each Wednesday from 3:30 p.m. - 6 p.m., the Kaua‘i Culinary Market is an epicurean’s delight. Aromas of fresh food being cooked on the grill greet guests while live, local musicians perform in the background and crowds mingle at various booths to taste the offerings of local chefs. Along with a variety of tropical fruits ranging from lychee to starfruit and even the piercingly colored dragon fruit, this market has a variety of vendors offering their handmade pies, jams, fresh cheese and local coffee. While some choose to dance to the live music or mingle among the vendors, there is also a relaxing wine and beer garden awaiting those who want to sit back, enjoy their food and listen to the live music.

Poipu Shopping Village

Po‘ipū Shopping Village has everything you’re looking for. In the heart of Po‘ipū amid a lovely garden setting, this family-friendly outdoor mall has award-winning restaurants, unique and eclectic shops, gift stores, jewelry stores and boutiques. You will discover a colorful array of shops, services and eateries on Po‘ipū Road and Kiahuna Plantation Drive in one convenient location. It is the home of Keoki’s Paradise Restaurant, Bangkok Happy Bowl Thai Bistro & Sushi Bar, Volcano Pizza, That Indian Place, Anuenue Café, Papalani Gelato, Starbucks, Sky Boutique, Crazy Shirts, Honolua Surf Co., Na Hoku jewelry, Damary’s Fine Jewelry and much more. Join Poipu Shopping Village at their stage under the Banyan Trees for Hula Shows every Monday and Thursday at 5 p.m. Enjoy the performance of award-winning Halau Ka Lei Mokihana o Leina’ala as their dancers perform the beautiful hula dances of Hawai‘i to live Hawaiian music. Island shopping doesn’t get much better than this!

Kilauea Fine Jewelry

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Located in the heart of Kilauea, co-owners Tiffany, Karen and Nicky began making jewelry together as ‘ohana, then decided to bring their dreams to life by starting a women-owned business creating one-of-a-kind pearl, gemstone and diamond fine jewelry. Specializing in Tahitian and South Sea pearl jewelry, most of which is handcrafted in their store, they personally select each and every pearl from the most reputable pearl farmers around the globe. Using only ethically-sourced diamonds and gemstones, they have a team of goldsmiths able to customize any piece you can dream up. In addition to a new mens line, these ladies recently launched their signature collection of Sustainably Created Lab Diamond Fine Jewelry which includes an eco-friendly selection of classic engagement rings and bands.

Kōloa Village

MIXED USE SHOPPING CENTER on SOUTH SHORE

Located in the heart of south Kaua‘i’s historic and picturesque Old Kōloa Town, Kōloa Village is the island’s newest neighborhood that celebrates the rich history and culture that make Kōloa such a special place. Experience the stunning oldworld, plantation-style architecture of the Village’s open-air design that takes full advantage of Kōloa’s balmy weather and beautiful surroundings. This walkable community attracts visitors and residents alike, offering a one-stop spot for everything Kaua‘i—from a wide variety of locally-owned shops, a brewery and eateries to an organic grocer and boutique fitness studios. Browse and experience one of the unique shops featuring products and gifts by Kaua‘i artists, designers, artisans and more locally made goods, or rent an e-bike for a day of exploring Old Kōloa Town and nearby Po‘ipū Beach and the historic Hapa Trail. Visit their Instagram page—@koloavillage—to learn more. Free weekly hula show on Thursdays at 2 p.m. with Hālau Ka Lei Mokihana o Leinā‘ala.

Located in Old Kōloa Town @koloavillage • KoloaVillage.com

5460 Kōloa Village Rd., Kōloa (Map C, PG 165)

› A VARIETY OF SHOPS & RESTAURANTS

› SITUATED IN OLD KŌLOA TOWN

› AMPLE PARKING AVAILABLE

There are many sides to Kaua‘i and Hokuala has them all. Stretching from golden-sand beaches, dramatic sea cliffs, and miles of trails, to meandering lagoon waters and red-earth kula lands, this storied destination brings together every dimension of the Garden Isle in one place. Come discover the Kaua‘i resort community that truly has it all.

This does not constitute an offer to sell nor the solicitation of an offer to purchase made in any jurisdiction nor made to residents of any jurisdiction, including New York, where registration is required. Tower Kaua‘i Lagoons LLC uses the Timbers Resort,® Timbers Collection® and certain other Timbers brand names under a limited non-transferable license in connection with the sales and marketing of the Hōkūala Kaua‘i™ – A Timbers Resort® (the “Project”). If this license is terminated or expires without renewal, the Project will no longer be identified with nor have any right to use the Timbers® marks and names. All rights reserved.

Oceanfront Whole & Fractional Ownership

Mauka & Makai Views from Half-Acre Homesites

ISLAND LIVING

Timbers Kaua‘i

› OCEANFRONT WHOLE & FRACTIONAL OWNERSHIP OPPORTUNITIES

› JACK NICKLAUS SIGNATURE GOLF

Immerse yourself in the Garden Isle at Timbers Kaua‘i – Ocean Club & Residences. Here, you will find an intimate collection of private residences offering an oceanfront location like no other on the island. Located within the 450-acre Hõkūala resort, at your doorstep awaits 13 miles of nature trails, an infinity pool, a restaurant and an on-site organic farm, as well as an award-winning Jack Nicklaus Signature course boasting the longest stretch of oceanfront golf in all of Hawai‘i. Offering both wholly owned and fractional ownership opportunities with luxury amenities and a dedicated concierge team, Timbers Kaua‘i lets you decide how much space you need and how much time you’d like to spend here. Spacious new condo-style and townhome residences offer three or four bedrooms with wellappointed finishes and open indoor-outdoor living with private lānais. Whether you come for a visit or a lifetime, you’ll never live aloha the same. Private tours available daily.

Hōkūala Kaua‘i, a Timbers Resort (808) 465-2593 • timberskauai.com

3770 Ala‘oli Way, Līhu‘e (Map H, PG 168)

Kauanoe o Kōloa

› TWO, THREE AND FOUR-BEDROOM RESIDENCES AVAILABLE

› LOCATED IN SUNNY PO‘IPŪ

Your island home awaits on Kaua‘i’s sunny southern coast at Kauanoe o Kōloa. Situated in the highly desirable Po‘ipū Beach area, this small town with a vibrant island lifestyle is known for its gorgeous, sunny weather, beautiful beaches, worldclass restaurants and golf courses designed by world-renowned architects. This private enclave of only 279 homes encompasses Kaua‘i living at its best. Spacious two-, three- and four-bedroom residences feature open floor plan designs, islandstyle architecture, and amenities to include a clubhouse with a fitness center and restaurant, two swimming pools and spas, a poolside pavilion, barbecue areas and more! Here, remarkable residences, adventurous days, restorative moments, a rich culture, and unrivaled natural beauty come together to create a truly exceptional place to call home.

Koloa Landing

› 350,000 GALLON MAIN POOL AND THE ADULTS-ONLY LAGOON POOL

› RELAX AT THE ON-SITE SPA

Koloa Landing at Poipu Beach is an exclusive, oceanside resort community located in one of the most coveted locations in the Hawaiian Islands. Nestled next to legendary Po‘ipū Beach, it’s setting ideally positions you to share in the abundance of natural and cultural treasures of Kaua‘i. World class amenities typically found only at exclusive resorts are yours at Koloa Landing. With architecture reflective of Kaua‘i’s multicultural heritage, the luxury villas combine various styles introduced at different periods in Kaua‘i history. The sweeping views of the ocean and sky are framed by generous picture windows. Disappearing glass doors bring paradise inside, providing you with a unique sense of tranquility. Each luxurious amenity is thoughtfully conceived and infused with aloha spirit. You won’t visit the island this time, you will feel a part of it.

MAPS

ISLAND MAP the garden island

PO‘IPŪ south shore

KŌLOA south shore

ELE‘ELE + HANAPEPE west side

KAPA‘A east side

KĪLAUEA north shore

WAILUA east side

LĪHU‘E central

Download the Savvy360 app to use geolocation features for alll of our guides.

KAUA‘I

PO‘IPŪ

Po‘ipū Beach

Shipwreck (Keoneloa) Beach

Poipu Bay Golf Course

PXG

Kukui‘ula Golf Course

Kiahuna Golf Course

Kauai Carts

The Shops at Grand Hyatt Kauai

Na Hoku

The Shops at Kukui‘ula

Kauai Culinary Market

Blue Ginger

Poipu Shopping Village

Na Hoku

EatingHouse 1849

Table at Poipu

Hapa Kauai Ramen & Whiskey

Stevenson's Library

Tidepools

Bangkok Happy Bowl Thai Bistro & Sushi Bar

The Cabana Bar & Grill

Kukui‘ula

Koloa Landing Resort

Grand Hyatt Kauai Resort & Spa

Koa Kea Hotel & Resort

Marriott's Waiohai Beach Club

The Point at Poipu

Sheraton Kauai Resort

Kauanoe o Kōloa

KŌLOA

Kauai ATV / Kōloa Zipline

Kauai E-Bikes

Sueoka Store

Kōloa Village

Kōloa Fish Market

La Spezia

Kōloa Mill Ice Cream & Coffee

The Fresh Shave

The Tasting Room

Dark Horse Coffee Roasters

ELE‘ELE (PORT ALLEN) + HANAPĒPĒ

Blue Dolphin Charters

HoloHolo Charters

Kauai Sea Tours

Salt Pond Beach Park

Talk Story Bookstore

The Bright Side Gallery

Port Allen Sunset Bar & Grill

Kauai Island Brewery & Grill

Midnight Bear Breads

Bobbie's Restaurant

Unkos Kitchen

Japanese Grandma's Cafe

MCS Grill

KAPA‘A

Rainbow Kayak Tours

Kīlauea Fine Jewelry

Coconut Grove Marketplace

Lū‘au Ka Hikina

Mariachi's Authentic Mexican Cuisine

The Crooked Surf

Moamoa Hawaiian Fish House

Fire Hen

Kenji Burger

‘Āina Kaua‘i

Hukilau Lanai

Oasis on the Beach

Monico's Taqueria

Olympic Cafe

Bubba Burgers

Al Pastor Tacos

Chicken in a Barrel BBQ

Sam's Ocean View Restaurant

Sheraton Kauai Coconut Beach Resort

Waipouli Beach Resort

Common Ground

Kilauea Fine Jewelry

Wyland Gallery

Kong Lung Historic Market Center

Kong Lung Trading Co.

Palate Wine Bar & Restaurant

Java Kai Coffee Roasters

Kauai Juice Co.

Kilauea Fish Market

‘Ōpaeka‘a Falls

Goldsmiths Kauai

Kinipopo Shopping Center

Streetburger Kauai

Korean BBQ

Kipu Ranch Adventures

Lū‘au Kalamaku

Polynesian Adventure Tours

Jack Harter Helicopters

Island Helicopters

Kilohana Plantation Railway

Kauai Safaris

‘Alekoko Fishpond

KalapakĪ Beach

Ocean Course at Hōkūala

Kukui Grove Center

Maui Divers Jewelry

The Plantation House by Gaylord's

Hualani's

Mariachi's Authentic Mexican Cuisine

Scorpacciata

Rob's Good Times Grill

Timbers Kaua‘i

Marriott's Kauai Beach Club

Royal Sonesta Kaua‘i Resort

Marriott's Kauai Lagoons - Kalanipu‘u LĪHU‘E

Pua Kea Golf Course

Kilohana Plantation

Wai‘oli Mission Church

Hanalei Bay

Princeville Makai Golf Club

Hanalei Farmers Market

Billabong Hanalei

Ching Young Shopping Village

Black Pearl

Halele‘a Gallery

Hanalei Center

Princeville Shopping Center

AMA Restaurant

BarAcuda

Hanalei Bread Company

Tahiti Nui

Jojo's Shave Ice

Postcards Cafe

The Dolphin

1 Hotel Hanalei Bay

Club Wyndham Ka Eo Kai

Club Wyndham Shearwater

Club Wyndham Bali Hai Villas

Hanalei Bay Resort

Makai Club

The Cliffs at Princeville

The Westin Princeville Ocean Resort Villas

TRAVELOGUE

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